Multisensory processing of emotional cues predicts intrusive memories after virtual reality trauma

Abstract Research has shown that high trait anxiety can alter multisensory processing of threat cues (by amplifying integration angry faces and voices); however, it remains unknown whether differences in play a role the psychological response to trauma. This study examined relationship between emotion intrusive memories over seven days following exposure an analogue trauma sample 55 healthy young adults. We used adapted version film paradigm, where scenes showing car accident were presented using virtual reality, rather than conventional 2D film. Multisensory was assessed prior simulation forced choice recognition paradigm with happy, sad voice-only, face-only, audiovisual congruent (face voice expressed matching emotions) incongruent expressions different emotions). found increased accuracy recognising anger (but not happiness sadness) condition relative voice- face-only conditions associated more intrusions VR Despite previous results linking intrusion development, no significant influence on frequency observed. Enhanced threat-related information (i.e. voices) could lead overly threatening appraisals stressful life events result greater development after