- Integrated IVR-CBT simultaneously targeted executive, attentional, and motor domains, addressing sustained/selective attention, planning, working memory, and motor regulation.
- An 8-year-old with combined-type ADHD received 12 weeks CBT then 12 weeks IVR-CBT via CAREN, with post-intervention functional improvements.
- Post-intervention improvements included sustained and selective attention, planning, working memory, balance, increased engagement and reduced impulsivity; further studies needed for efficacy and generalisability.
Front Psychiatry. 2026 Jul 20;17:1888297. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2026.1888297. eCollection 2026.
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition characterized by persistent patterns of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity. This case highlights the potential benefit of integrating Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in the rehabilitation of a child with ADHD. It contributes to emerging evidence by showing how a combined approach may simultaneously target executive, attentional, and motor domains within a single intervention.
CASE PRESENTATION: An 8-year-old child with deficits in sustained and selective attention, impaired executive functioning (including planning and working memory), impulsivity, and difficulties in motor regulation, as revealed during baseline assessments, impacting daily functioning. The patient was diagnosed with combined-type ADHD and underwent a 12-week CBT intervention, followed by integrated IVR-CBT intervention targeting executive functions and self-control, once a week for 12 weeks. The intervention was conducted using the CAREN (Computer Assisted Rehabilitation Environment), an immersive virtual reality platform integrating multisensory input and interactive tasks to promote cognitive and motor engagement. Post-intervention assessments showed improvements in sustained and selective attention, planning, working memory, and balance. There was also an increase in involvement and a reduction in impulsivity.
CONCLUSION: The findings support the hypothesis that immersive, embodied interventions targeting both executive and sensorimotor processes may represent a promising novelty adjunctive rehabilitation approach. Further studies are needed to evaluate efficacy, generalizability, and to confirm these findings in larger samples. This case report was prepared in accordance with the CARE Guidelines.
PMID:42548748 | PMC:PMC13429603 | DOI:10.3389/fpsyt.2026.1888297
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