Abstract:
Glossophobia, also known as the fear of public speaking, is a common issue faced by
approximately 75% of people worldwide. People with Social Anxiety Disorder often face this
fear as well. But, since engaging with a therapist and discussing their concerns is considered
a form of social interaction, individuals with Social Anxiety Disorder tend to prefer self-help
approaches instead. The fear of public speaking is a common aspect of SAD, which leads to
missed opportunities for personal growth. While Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and
exposure therapy are effective, there is a crucial need for a digital platform to empower
individuals with SAD, providing a self-help tool. This platform aims to alleviate the fear of
public speaking, fostering personal development and enhancing overall quality of life.
The project aims to develop an innovative technology-driven platform utilizing deep learning
for emotion recognition speech within virtual environments featuring NPCs and crowd
simulations. The primary focus is on providing effective exposure therapy for individuals
experiencing glossophobia, ultimately aiding them in overcoming public speaking anxiety
and enhancing their public speaking skills and confidence. The platform incorporates 3D
rigged models, Scripted NPC reactions with varying intensity levels, and emotion recognition
algorithms.
After the initial implementation, some issues regarding the quality from the NPCs were
identified. Addressing these concerns is crucial to ensure the immersive experience of the
platform.
