Clinical Psychology
The comprehensive aim of the Chair's research activities in the field of clinical psychology is to contribute to the elucidation of the disturbed processing of emotional and social stimuli that occur in the context of psychological disorders. The integration of experimental and neuropsychological questions and study designs is essential for research into these general phenomena of psychological experience and behaviour. Fear and anxiety disorders are a major focus of research, with particular emphasis on the learning and attention processes involved. In particular, the investigation of context on the learning and unlearning of fear reactions is crucial for the understanding of anxiety disorders. The investigation of genetic polymorphisms and the interaction of genetics-environmental aspects are also considered. Innovative technical possibilities such as virtual reality are used to optimise the study environment and the ecological validity of the experimental investigations. See also projects.
Psychotherapy
Based on current developments, the method of exposure in virtual reality is being investigated as an innovative intervention method. This method has proven to be very effective for various anxiety disorders and is also very attractive for patients. The virtual reality method can also be used for therapy process research in particular, as it can be used to realise controlled and easily manipulated stimulus situations. Of particular interest here are the conditions for successful exposure therapy for anxiety disorders. (Example article: "Effect of multiple context exposure on renewal in spider phobia") (external link, opens in a new window)
Social interactions are another focus of research. They are relevant for the experience of stress in private and professional contexts and are a decisive component in many psychological disorders and an important starting point for psychotherapy. To elucidate relevant aspects of social interactions, paradigms are to be established in virtual worlds in addition to process analyses in psychotherapies, which can be used to investigate social interactions, to treat social anxiety and also to prevent psychological disorders.
