Training in a comprehensive everyday-like virtual reality environment compared to computerized cognitive training for patients with depression

Abstract

Neurocognitive impairments in patients with depression compromise everyday functioning. Thus, should neuropsychological therapy be designed as real-life-like as possible to maximize transfer effects? We investigated whether ecological validity of computerized cognitive training could be increased by a comprehensive everyday-life-simulating training device combining virtual reality, 360°-all-around visibility and autonomous navigation motions. In an eight days training program, patients exercised the learning and purchasing of shopping list products in a virtual supermarket using either the novel training device (n = 21) or a corresponding desktop application (n = 17). In a pre-post-design, effects of the two training conditions were compared regarding several outcome measures. Altogether, results did not prove a benefit of the more naturalistic training setting regarding different training performances (recognition, performance speed, spatial orientation), self-perceived daily cognitive impairments, a real-life shopping task as well as various neuropsychological capabilities. Findings are discussed in the context of general challenges in striving after ecological validity in neuropsychology.