Brief Report: Virtual Reality to Raise Awareness About Autism.

The study did not include a long-term follow-up, so it is unknown if the effects persist. The control group received no alternative training, so it is unclear if VR is superior to other awareness methods. Outcomes were based solely on self-reported attitudes and knowledge, not observed behavioral changes. The sample was limited to adults from a specific technical college environment, which may not represent the general population. The VR simulation depicted only one scenario (visiting a dentist), which may not capture the full heterogeneity of autistic experiences.

Funded by Fonds de Recherche du Québec - Santé, Réseau d’expertise en troubles du spectre de l’autisme, and Fondation de l’Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal. No conflicts of interest declared.

Do not assume this VR intervention produces lasting behavioral change. The study measured immediate self-reported attitudes and knowledge only, with no follow-up period to verify persistence or real-world application.