This project explores a multi-user virtual reality (VR) intervention for early prevention of eating disorders, targeting distorted body image before the onset of clinically significant pathology. Disturbances in body image perception are considered a core and early feature of eating disorders, often preceding full diagnostic symptoms.
Participants first create a personalized avatar representing how they believe they look, allowing the intervention to directly engage with their subjective body image representation. The intervention then introduces a value-based exercise designed to increase psychological flexibility and willingness to engage in exposure. In this exercise, participants interact with a table displaying multiple value-related qualities of action. Initially, they select five random numbers, which reveal corresponding values that are discussed with the researcher. Subsequently, all values are revealed, and participants freely choose and rank those they consider personally important within a gamified “Game of Life” environment.
Following the value-based component, participants transition to a VR mirror- exposure task conducted in a bedroom environment. Using procedures adapted from in-vivo mirror exposure, participants are exposed to their self-created digital avatar reflected in a virtual mirror. This exposure targets participants’ perception of their physical appearance rather than objective body characteristics. By combining value-based motivation with controlled exposure to perceived body image, this VR intervention aims to reduce avoidance, challenge distorted self- perception, and intervene early in the trajectory of eating disorder development.
Last Updated on February 7, 2026
