New ‘Phobys’ app to help arachnophobes
A new app designed by researchers at the University of Basel, Switzerland, uses augmented reality to help users reduce their fear of spiders.
Phobys uses exposure therapy, through a combination of hyper-realistic images and interactive stages of engagement, to help people conquer their fears.
To test their technology, the researchers conducted a clinical trial with 66 participants with a fear of spiders over two weeks.
One group used the app for about six and a half hours, while a second group didn’t use it at all.
Those who used the app reported less “fear” and “disgust” than those in the control group.
Image: Phobys
“It’s easier for people with a fear of spiders to face a virtual spider than a real one,” said Anja Zimmer, the study’s lead author.
The app is available in app stores for iPhone and Android.
However, researchers have advised those who suffer from a “serious” fear of arachnids to use the app under the guidance of a therapist.
Image: Getty