Citation

Sigurvinsdottir R, Skúladóttir H, Antonsdóttir HF, Cardenas P, Georgsdóttir MT, Írisardóttir Þórisdóttir M, Jónsdóttir EK, Konop M, Valdimarsdóttir HB, Vilhjálmsson HH, Asgeirsdottir BB. Violence Against Women 2023; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2023, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/10778012231205589

PMID

37801610

Abstract

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.

Language: en

Keywords

sexual violence; virtual reality; courtroom stress; exposure; posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)