FocusVR: A Video Game Designed to Enhance Concentration in Children with ADHD Through Sustained and Selective Attention Techniques

Abstract

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects 5% of children worldwide, generating difficulties in education and social interaction. In this sense, this paper presents the development of FocusVR, a virtual reality video game designed to improve attention in children with ADHD through sustained and selective attention techniques. To assess the effectiveness of FocusVR, a study was conducted involving a cohort of twelve children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The sample comprised four females and eight males, with a mean age of 11 years (range: 9–13 years). The participants were categorized based on their specific ADHD subtype: six were diagnosed with ADHD Inattentive and Distractible, four with ADHD Impulsive/Hyperactive, and two with ADHD Combined. The intervention involved the use of Oculus Quest 3 virtual reality goggles, with each participant engaging in 30-min sessions. Throughout the intervention, participants were closely monitored by both therapists and their parents to ensure a safe and supportive environment during the sessions. The results show that sustained attention improved by an average of 77.24% of correctly found objects. As for selective attention, children were able to correctly filter 55.66% of objects, with a standard deviation of 0.1676, suggesting greater variability among participants. In addition, some players showed significant improvements: the player with the greatest progress in sustained attention increased by 44%, while in selective attention the best player increased by 24%. These findings prove that FocusVR is an invaluable addition to the treatment of ADHD. It offers an engaging, interactive experience that can be seamlessly integrated with traditional methods such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication.