A Virtual Reality Courtroom for Survivors of Sexual Violence: A Mixed-Method Pilot Study on Application Possibilities

This mixed-method pilot study examined the application possibilities of a virtual courtroom to support survivors of sexual violence who may experience courtroom-associated distress. Female sexual violence survivors (n = 13) who had testified in court following victimization entered an interactive vi...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Sigurvinsdottir, Rannveig (Author)
Contributors: Skúladóttir, Hildur ; Antonsdóttir, Hildur Fjóla ; Cardenas, Paola ; Georgsdóttir, Margrét Tórshamar ; Írisardóttir Þórisdóttir, Malena ; Jónsdóttir, Erla Katrín ; Konop, Magdalena ; Valdimarsdóttir, Heiðdís B. ; Vilhjálmsson, Hannes Högni ; Ásgeirsdóttir, Bryndís Björk
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
Published: 2024
In: Violence against women
Year: 2024, Volume: 30, Issue: 1, Pages: 249-274
Online Access: Volltext (lizenzpflichtig)
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Keywords:
courtroom stress
posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Sexual Violence
exposure
Virtual Reality
Description
Summary:This mixed-method pilot study examined the application possibilities of a virtual courtroom to support survivors of sexual violence who may experience courtroom-associated distress. Female sexual violence survivors (n = 13) who had testified in court following victimization entered an interactive virtual courtroom replica. Their reactions were measured quantitatively and qualitatively. The virtual courtroom evoked both subjective and physiological stress. Participants perceived the virtual reality environment as similar to the real-life courtroom. Most reported negative experiences from interacting with the criminal justice system. The virtual courtroom is a possible future strategy to support survivors when reporting violence to the justice system.
ISSN:1552-8448
DOI:10.1177/10778012231205589