Design and Evaluation of a Wearable Biofeedback System for Real-Time Regulation of Social Anxiety Based on the System Desensitization Theory

Abstract

This study explores the effective translation of Systematic Desensitization (SD) theory from clinical psychology into wearable interactive systems for social contexts. Addressing the challenges faced by individuals with Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)—specifically the difficulty in perceiving physiological arousal and the lack of discreet regulation tools during real-world interactions—this paper proposes a design translation framework based on the "Detection–Guidance–Regulation" loop. The core contribution of this framework lies in the application of Peripheral Interaction techniques, which transform complex psychological intervention processes into non-intrusive, rhythmic feedback. To demonstrate the technical feasibility and design rationale of this translation path, an ear-worn biofeedback prototype was developed. Preliminary pilot evaluations indicate that the system achieves an engineering-grade response latency of 245 ms. Furthermore, small-scale usability testing (n=10) demonstrated high levels of wearable comfort and social discretion. This research establishes a replicable human factors paradigm for translating psychotherapeutic principles into everyday functional artifacts.

Keywords: Systematic Desensitization (SD), Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), Wearable Interaction, Peripheral Interaction, Human Systems Integration (HSI), Design Translation

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1007519