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Veerman LK, Fjermestad KW, Vatne TM, Sterkenburg PS, Derks SD, Brouwer-van Dijken AA, Willemen AM. Cultural applicability and desirability of 'Broodles': The first serious game intervention for siblings of children with disabilities. PEC INNOVATION 2024; 4:100277. [PMID: 38590338 PMCID: PMC11000116 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2024.100277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Objective Serious games can serve as easily accessible interventions to support siblings of children with disabilities, who are at risk of developing mental health problems. The Dutch serious game 'Broodles' was developed for siblings aged 6-9 years. The current study aims to assess the cultural applicability, desirability, feasibility, and acceptability of 'Broodles' in Norway. Methods Norwegian siblings (N = 16) aged 6-13 years and parents (N = 12) of children with intellectual disabilities assessed the game. Their feedback data from interviews and questionnaires were sorted using a model of engagement factors in serious games. Results At pre-use, participants showed interest in the game, and after initial use the participants were overall positive about the format, content and objectives, including validation of emotions and recognition. The participants had suggestions for improved engagement and feasibility. Conclusion The game was found to be culturally applicable, desirable and acceptable, although Norwegian translation is necessary for further evaluation. Recommendations to enhance engagement were provided, including suggestions to play the game with parents or in a group. Innovation This initial assessment of the serious game Broodles in a non-Dutch setting shows promise for an innovative way of supporting siblings of children with disabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda K.M. Veerman
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health, LEARN!, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Krister W. Fjermestad
- University of Oslo, Boks 1072 Blindern, 0316, Oslo, Norway
- Frambu Resource Center for Rare Disorders, Sandbakkveien 18, 1404, Siggerud, Norway
| | - Torun M. Vatne
- University of Oslo, Boks 1072 Blindern, 0316, Oslo, Norway
- Frambu Resource Center for Rare Disorders, Sandbakkveien 18, 1404, Siggerud, Norway
| | - Paula S. Sterkenburg
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health, LEARN!, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Bartiméus, Oude Arnhemse Bovenweg 3, 3941 XM, Doorn, the Netherlands
| | - Suzanne D.M. Derks
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health, LEARN!, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Agnes M. Willemen
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health, LEARN!, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Zhan J, Liu C, Wang Z, Cai Z, He J. Effects of game-based digital interventions for mental disorders: A meta-analysis. J Affect Disord 2024; 362:731-741. [PMID: 39029672 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.07.095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
With increasing research attention on game-based digital interventions for mental disorders, a number of studies have been conducted to explore the effectiveness of digital game-based interventions on mental disorders. However, findings from previous research were inconsistent. Thus, we conducted a comprehensive meta-analytic review of the effectiveness of game-based digital interventions for mental disorders. By searching the articles in databases, we identified 53 studies in which 2433 participants were involved, and 282 effect sizes were extracted. Among the 53 studies, 14 employed within-group (pre/post) designs, and the remaining 39 utilized controlled trial designs. Using a three-level random-effects meta-analytic model, a medium effect size of game-based digital interventions (g = 0.47, 95 % CI: 0.33, 0.61) was revealed in the controlled trial designs and a close-to-medium effect size (g = 0.45, 95 % CI: 0.32, 0.58) was found in the within-group (pre/post) designs, indicating close-to-medium-sized efficacy of game-based digital interventions for mental disorders. Moderator analyses showed that age in the controlled trial designs had contributed to the heterogeneity in previous studies, suggesting that interventions might be more effective for the elderly. However, given that only a limited number of studies were focused on the elderly, more studies with older participants should be conducted in the future to provide more robust evidence and explore the mechanisms of how digital gaming interventions can be more effective in improving mental disorders symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieni Zhan
- School of Psychology, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Key Laboratory of Adolescent Cyberpsychology and Behavior (CCNU), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Caiyan Liu
- School of Psychology, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Key Laboratory of Adolescent Cyberpsychology and Behavior (CCNU), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhikeng Wang
- School of Psychology, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Key Laboratory of Adolescent Cyberpsychology and Behavior (CCNU), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhihui Cai
- School of Psychology, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Key Laboratory of Adolescent Cyberpsychology and Behavior (CCNU), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China.
| | - Jinbo He
- Division of Applied Psychology, School of Humanities and Social Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518172, P.R. China.
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Zuo X, Tang Y, Chen Y, Zhou Z. Effects of Electronic Serious Games on Older Adults With Alzheimer's Disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment: Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. JMIR Serious Games 2024; 12:e55785. [PMID: 39083796 PMCID: PMC11324188 DOI: 10.2196/55785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serious games (SGs) are nonpharmacological interventions that are widely applied among older adults. To date, no evidence has been published regarding the effect of digital SGs on cognitive ability, daily behavioral capacity, or depression in older adults with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the effect of SGs on older adults with AD and MCI by summarizing and pooling the results of previous studies. METHODS This meta-analysis examined the effectiveness of digital SGs in improving cognitive ability, enhancing daily behavioral capacity, and alleviating depression in older adults with AD and MCI. We searched the following databases up to December 31, 2023, to identify relevant high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs): PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library. Stata 15.1 and Review Manager 5.3 were used to screen the 14 studies, extract data, code the data, and perform meta-analysis. Mean differences and standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% CIs were used to calculate continuous variables. The Cochrane risk-of-bias assessment tool was used to evaluate the risk of bias. Eligibility criteria were developed in accordance with the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes, and Study Design framework: (1) population (older adults with AD and MCI), (2) intervention (digital SG intervention), (3) comparison (digital SG intervention vs routine health care), (4) outcomes (cognitive ability, daily behavioral capacity, and depression), and (5) study or research design (RCT). Sensitivity analysis was performed, and a funnel plot was constructed. RESULTS From January 2017 to December 2023, we enrolled 714 individuals across 14 RCTs, with 374 (52.4%) in the severe game group using digital SGs and 340 (47.6%) in the control group using traditional methods. The results of our meta-analysis indicated that using digital SGs in older adults with AD and MCI is more effective than traditional training methods in several key areas. Specifically, digital SG therapy significantly increased cognitive ability, as found in the Mini-Mental State Examination (SMD 2.11, 95% CI 1.42-2.80; P<.001) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (SMD 2.75, 95% CI 1.98-3.51; P<.001), significantly increased daily behavioral capacity (SMD 0.53, 95% CI 0.06-0.99; P=.03), and significantly reduced depression (SMD -2.08, 95% CI -2.94 to -1.22; P<.001) in older adults with AD and MCI. No publication bias was detected based on the results of Begg and Egger tests. CONCLUSIONS Digital SGs offer a viable and effective nonpharmacological approach for older adults with AD and MCI, yielding better results compared to traditional formats. However, caution is warranted in interpreting these findings due to limited RCTs, small sample sizes, and low-quality meta-analyzed evidence. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews: CRDCRD42023486090; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=486090.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Zuo
- Sociology Department, School of Government, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yong Tang
- Sociology Department, School of Government, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yifang Chen
- Institution of Policy Studies, Lingnan University, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong SAR, China (Hong Kong)
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De Jaegere E, van Heeringen K, Emmery P, Mommerency G, Portzky G. Effects of a Serious Game for Adolescent Mental Health on Cognitive Vulnerability: Pilot Usability Study. JMIR Serious Games 2024; 12:e47513. [PMID: 38725223 PMCID: PMC11097755 DOI: 10.2196/47513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Adolescent mental health is of utmost importance. E-mental health interventions, and serious games in particular, are appealing to adolescents and can have beneficial effects on their mental health. A serious game aimed at improving cognitive vulnerability (ie, beliefs or attitudes), which can predispose an individual to mental health problems, can contribute to the prevention of these problems in adolescents. Objective This study aimed to assess the feasibility of the prototype of a serious game called "Silver." Methods The prototype of the serious game was developed using a user-centered participatory design. The prototype of Silver focused on 1 aspect of a serious game for improving cognitive vulnerability in adolescents, that is, the recognition and identification of cognitive distortions. Through the game, players were required to identify and classify the character's thoughts as helpful or unhelpful. Upon successful advancement to the next level, the task becomes more challenging, as players must also identify specific types of cognitive distortions. A pre- and posttest uncontrolled design was used to evaluate the game, with a 1-week intervention phase in which participants were asked to play the game. Participants aged 12-16 years were recruited in schools. The outcomes of interest were the recognition of cognitive distortions and presence of participants' cognitive distortions. The game was also evaluated on its effects, content, and usefulness. Results A total of 630 adolescents played Silver and completed the assessments. Adolescents were significantly better at recognizing cognitive distortions at the pretest (mean 13.09, SD 4.08) compared to the posttest (mean 13.82, SD 5.09; t629=-4.00, P<.001). Furthermore, their cognitive distortions decreased significantly at the posttest (mean 38.73, SD 12.79) compared to the pretest (mean 41.43, SD 10.90; t629=7.98, P<.001). Participants also indicated that the game helped them recognize cognitive distortions. Many participants considered the game appealing (294/610, 48.2%) but boring (317/610, 52%) and preferred a more comprehensive game (299/610, 49%). Conclusions Findings from this study suggest that a serious game may be an effective tool for improving cognitive vulnerability in adolescents. The development of such a serious game, based on the prototype, is recommended. It may be an important and innovative tool for the universal prevention of mental health problems in adolescents. Future research on the effects of the game is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva De Jaegere
- Department of Head and Skin, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kees van Heeringen
- Department of Head and Skin, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Peter Emmery
- University Psychiatric Centre KU Leuven, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Gijs Mommerency
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gwendolyn Portzky
- Department of Head and Skin, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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5
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Wols A, Pingel M, Lichtwarck-Aschoff A, Granic I. Effectiveness of applied and casual games for young people's mental health: A systematic review of randomised controlled studies. Clin Psychol Rev 2024; 108:102396. [PMID: 38320420 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2024.102396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Many youth experience mental health problems and digital games hold potential as mental health interventions. This systematic review provides an overview of randomised controlled studies assessing the effectiveness of digital applied and casual games for improving mental health in youth aged 6-24 years. A systematic search of PsycINFO, Web of Science and Pubmed yielded 145 eligible studies. Studies on (sub)clinical participant samples (n = 75) most often focused on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism and anxiety. Applied games were found most effective for improving social skills, verbal memory and anxiety, whereas casual games were found most effective for improving depression, anxiety and ADHD. Studies involving healthy youth (n = 70) were grouped into papers examining anxiety in medical settings, momentary effects on positive and negative affect, and papers employing a longitudinal design measuring mental health trait outcomes. Promising results were found for the use of games as distraction tools in medical settings, and for applied and casual games for improving momentary affect. Overall, our findings demonstrate the potential of digital games for improving mental health. Implications and recommendations for future research are discussed, such as developing evaluation guidelines, clearly defining applied games, harmonising outcome measures, including positive outcomes, and examining nonspecific factors that may influence symptom improvement as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniek Wols
- Radboud University, Behavioural Science Institute, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Michelle Pingel
- Radboud University, Behavioural Science Institute, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Anna Lichtwarck-Aschoff
- Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Department of Pedagogical & Educational Sciences, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Isabela Granic
- McMaster University, Health, Aging & Society, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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6
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Wong RS, Tung KTS, Ho FKW, Wong WHS, Chow CB, Chan KL, Fu KW, Ip P. Effect of a Mobile Game-Based Intervention to Enhance Child Safety: Randomized Controlled Trial. J Med Internet Res 2024; 26:e51908. [PMID: 38354042 PMCID: PMC10902767 DOI: 10.2196/51908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence supports the effectiveness of serious games in health education, but little is known about their effects on the psychosocial well-being of children in the general population. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the potential of a mobile game-based safety education program in improving children's safety and psychosocial outcomes. METHODS Safe City is a mobile roleplaying game specifically designed to educate children in Hong Kong about safety. This randomized controlled trial included 340 children in grades 4 through 6. Intervention arm participants (n=170) were instructed to play the Safe City mobile game for 4 weeks, whereas control arm participants (n=170) received a safety booklet. All participants completed a survey on safety knowledge and behaviors and psychosocial problems at baseline (T1), 1 month postintervention (T2), and 3 months postintervention (T3). Cumulative game scores and mini-game performance were analyzed as a proxy for the extent of exposure to the game. Outcome data were analyzed using 2-sample 2-tailed t tests to compare mean change from T1 to T2 and to T3 for intervention versus control arm participants. The association of game use with outcome changes postintervention was analyzed using generalized additive models. RESULTS No significant differences were found in mean changes between the intervention and control arms. However, use analyses showed that higher game scores were associated with improvements in safe behavior (P=.03) and internalizing problems (P=.01) at T3. Matching and Spot the Danger mini-game performance significantly predicted improvements in safety knowledge at T2 and T3. CONCLUSIONS Analysis of use has shown that playing the Safe City mobile game can result in significant improvements in safety knowledge and reductions in unsafe behavior and internalizing problems. These findings provide evidence for the positive impact of serious games on psychological and social well-being, highlighting the potential of technology-driven interventions to assist children in learning about safety and preventing injuries. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.org NCT04096196; https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT04096196. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.2196/17756.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa S Wong
- Department of Special Education and Counselling, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
| | - Keith T S Tung
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
| | - Frederick K W Ho
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Wilfred H S Wong
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
| | - Chun Bong Chow
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
| | - Ko Ling Chan
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
| | - King Wa Fu
- Journalism and Media Studies Centre, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
| | - Patrick Ip
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
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Sanders T, Noetel M, Parker P, Del Pozo Cruz B, Biddle S, Ronto R, Hulteen R, Parker R, Thomas G, De Cocker K, Salmon J, Hesketh K, Weeks N, Arnott H, Devine E, Vasconcellos R, Pagano R, Sherson J, Conigrave J, Lonsdale C. An umbrella review of the benefits and risks associated with youths' interactions with electronic screens. Nat Hum Behav 2024; 8:82-99. [PMID: 37957284 DOI: 10.1038/s41562-023-01712-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
The influence of electronic screens on the health of children and adolescents and their education is not well understood. In this prospectively registered umbrella review (PROSPERO identifier CRD42017076051 ), we harmonized effects from 102 meta-analyses (2,451 primary studies; 1,937,501 participants) of screen time and outcomes. In total, 43 effects from 32 meta-analyses met our criteria for statistical certainty. Meta-analyses of associations between screen use and outcomes showed small-to-moderate effects (range: r = -0.14 to 0.33). In education, results were mixed; for example, screen use was negatively associated with literacy (r = -0.14, 95% confidence interval (CI) = -0.20 to -0.09, P ≤ 0.001, k = 38, N = 18,318), but this effect was positive when parents watched with their children (r = 0.15, 95% CI = 0.02 to 0.28, P = 0.028, k = 12, N = 6,083). In health, we found evidence for several small negative associations; for example, social media was associated with depression (r = 0.12, 95% CI = 0.05 to 0.19, P ≤ 0.001, k = 12, N = 93,740). Limitations of our review include the limited number of studies for each outcome, medium-to-high risk of bias in 95 out of 102 included meta-analyses and high heterogeneity (17 out of 22 in education and 20 out of 21 in health with I2 > 50%). We recommend that caregivers and policymakers carefully weigh the evidence for potential harms and benefits of specific types of screen use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taren Sanders
- Institute for Positive Psychology and Education, Australian Catholic University, North Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Michael Noetel
- School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Philip Parker
- Institute for Positive Psychology and Education, Australian Catholic University, North Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Borja Del Pozo Cruz
- Department of Sport Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Education, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INiBICA) Research Unit, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Stuart Biddle
- Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Sport and Health Scienchresholds for statistical credibilites, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Rimante Ronto
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ryan Hulteen
- School of Kinesiology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Rhiannon Parker
- The Centre for Social Impact, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - George Thomas
- The Health and Wellbeing Centre for Research Innovation, School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Katrien De Cocker
- Department of Movement and Sport Science, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jo Salmon
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kylie Hesketh
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicole Weeks
- Institute for Positive Psychology and Education, Australian Catholic University, North Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hugh Arnott
- Institute for Positive Psychology and Education, Australian Catholic University, North Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Emma Devine
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Roberta Vasconcellos
- Institute for Positive Psychology and Education, Australian Catholic University, North Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rebecca Pagano
- School of Education, Australian Catholic University, North Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jamie Sherson
- School of Education, Australian Catholic University, North Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - James Conigrave
- Institute for Positive Psychology and Education, Australian Catholic University, North Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Chris Lonsdale
- Institute for Positive Psychology and Education, Australian Catholic University, North Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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David OA, Fodor LA. Are gains in emotional symptoms and emotion-regulation competencies after the REThink therapeutic game maintained in the long run? A 6-month follow-up. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2023; 32:1853-1862. [PMID: 35593966 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-022-02002-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Emotional disorders are the most prevalent mental health conditions affecting children and adolescents. Thus, it becomes essential to develop and test early intervention strategies that are accessible, attractive, and can effectively improve their emotional functioning. A randomized control trial compared the prevention effects of the REThink therapeutic game to those of a standard face-to-face prevention program, and a waitlist which was transformed at follow-up into care as usual. Out of 142 healthy children and adolescents who completed the intervention stage, 137 (mean age: 12.84, SD: 1.97) completed a follow-up assessment measuring emotional symptoms, depressive mood and emotion regulation. We also tested potential moderators of its long-term effects, such as parental psychological control, parent attachment and childhood trauma. Our results highlighted the fact that the REThink intervention had a durable impact on the children's mental health and their ability to regulate their emotions. Moreover, we found that trauma, parent psychological control and parent attachment moderated the maintenance of the improvements. Future research needs to further document how to personalize the game and prevention program components to better address the characteristics of the youths at risk for mental health problems. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03308981, from 13.10.2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oana A David
- DATA Lab, International Institute for Advanced Studies in Psychotherapy and Applied Mental Health, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Babeș-Bolyai University, No. 37, Republicii Street, 400015, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Liviu A Fodor
- DATA Lab, International Institute for Advanced Studies in Psychotherapy and Applied Mental Health, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Evidence Based Psychological Assessment and Interventions Doctoral School, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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9
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David OA, Fodor LA. Preventing mental illness in children that experienced maltreatment the efficacy of REThink online therapeutic game. NPJ Digit Med 2023; 6:106. [PMID: 37277525 PMCID: PMC10240463 DOI: 10.1038/s41746-023-00849-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to child maltreatment (CM) is considered to predispose children to devastating consequences in terms of mental health. Thus, it is a public health priority to provide these children with early preventive interventions that are accessible on a large scale, adapted to their needs, and effective in supporting their mental health. Here we report a randomized control trial to test the efficacy of the REThink online therapeutic game, as compared with a Care as Usual (CAU) control group in the prevention of mental illness in maltreated children. Out of 439 children aged 8-12 that were recruited, 294 children with self-reported maltreatment histories were included in the current study, and were allocated, 146 participants in the REThink group and 148 participants in the CAU group. All children completed pre- and post-intervention assessments measuring mental health, emotion regulation, and irrational cognitions. We also tested potential moderators for these effects, such as the severity of CM and the security of parent attachment. Our results show that children receiving the REThink game intervention outperform the CAU group at post-test, showing a significantly lower level of emotional problems, mental health difficulties, use of maladaptive emotion-regulation strategies such as catastrophizing, rumination, and self-blame, and irrational cognitions. Moreover, children with higher CM severity benefit the most from the REThink game, while children with lower parent attachment security benefit the least. Future research is needed, to investigate the long-term efficacy of the REThink game in promoting the mental health of children exposed to CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oana A David
- DATA Lab, International Institute for the Advanced Studies of Psychotherapy and Applied Mental Health, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Liviu A Fodor
- DATA Lab, International Institute for the Advanced Studies of Psychotherapy and Applied Mental Health, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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10
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Veerman LKM, Willemen AM, Derks SDM, Brouwer-van Dijken AAJ, Sterkenburg PS. The effectiveness of the serious game "Broodles" for siblings of children with intellectual disabilities and/or visual impairment: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials 2023; 24:336. [PMID: 37198687 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07358-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Siblings of children with disabilities also need support. However, there are only a few evidence-based interventions for these siblings. The current study aims to assess the effectiveness of a newly developed serious game for young siblings of children with intellectual disability (ID) and/or visual impairment (VI). This serious game is hypothesized to improve sibling's quality of life, adjustment to their brother's or sister's disability, and multiple aspects of psychosocial well-being. METHODS The intervention consists of a serious game called "Broodles" (in Dutch: "Broedels") that helps children to recognize and deal with thoughts, feelings, and difficult situations. The game consists of eight 20-minute levels that all have the same structure with eight game elements. Each level addresses a domain of sibling quality of life and combines animations, mini-documentaries, fun mini-games, and multiple-choice questions. In addition to the game, siblings make a worksheet after playing each level. In order to support the child, the parents or caregivers receive a short brochure with information and tips. The effectiveness of the intervention will be investigated among a sample of 154 children aged 6-9 years and their parents or caregivers, using a two-arm parallel RCT design. The experimental group will play the serious game "Broodles" over a period of 4 weeks, whereas the control group will be placed on a waiting list. Assessments will take place at three time points: pre-test (week 1), post-test (week 5), and follow-up (weeks 12-14). At each timepoint, children and parents will complete several questionnaires on quality of life and different aspects of psychosocial well-being. In addition, children will make drawings to assess the sibling relationship. Next to that, parents and children will answer closed and open-ended questions about the sibling adjustment to their brother or sister's disability. Finally, parents and children will evaluate the serious game through closed and open-ended questions. DISCUSSION This study contributes to the knowledge about sibling interventions and serious games. Additionally, if the serious game is proven to be effective, it will be a readily available, easily accessible, and free of charge intervention for siblings. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05376007, registered prospectively on April 21, 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda K M Veerman
- Department of Clinical Child and Family Studies; LEARN!; Amsterdam Public Health, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081 BT, the Netherlands.
| | - Agnes M Willemen
- Department of Clinical Child and Family Studies; LEARN!; Amsterdam Public Health, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081 BT, the Netherlands
| | - Suzanne D M Derks
- Department of Clinical Child and Family Studies; LEARN!; Amsterdam Public Health, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081 BT, the Netherlands
| | | | - Paula S Sterkenburg
- Department of Clinical Child and Family Studies; LEARN!; Amsterdam Public Health, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081 BT, the Netherlands
- Bartiméus, Doorn, Oude Arnhemse Bovenweg 3, 3941 XM, the Netherlands
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11
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Vacca RA, Augello A, Gallo L, Caggianese G, Malizia V, La Grutta S, Murero M, Valenti D, Tullo A, Balech B, Marzano F, Ghezzo A, Tancredi G, Turchetta A, Riccio MP, Bravaccio C, Scala I. Serious Games in the new era of digital-health interventions: A narrative review of their therapeutic applications to manage neurobehavior in neurodevelopmental disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 149:105156. [PMID: 37019246 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders generally show adaptive, cognitive and motor skills impairments associated with behavioral problems, i.e., alterations in attention, anxiety and stress regulation, emotional and social relationships, which strongly limit their quality of life. This narrative review aims at providing a critical overview of the current knowledge in the field of serious games (SGs), known as digital instructional interactive videogames, applied to neurodevelopmental disorders. Indeed, a growing number of studies is drawing attention to SGs as innovative and promising interventions in managing neurobehavioral and cognitive disturbs in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Accordingly, we provide a literature overview of the current evidence regarding the actions and the effects of SGs. In addition, we describe neurobehavioral alterations occurring in some specific neurodevelopmental disorders for which a possible therapeutic use of SGs has been suggested. Finally, we discuss findings obtained in clinical trials using SGs as digital therapeutics in neurodevelopment disorders and suggest new directions and hypotheses for future studies to bridge the gaps between clinical research and clinical practice.
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12
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Carlier S, Naessens V, De Backere F, De Turck F. A Software Engineering Framework for Reusable Design of Personalized Serious Games for Health: Development Study. JMIR Serious Games 2023; 11:e40054. [PMID: 36877554 PMCID: PMC10028510 DOI: 10.2196/40054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of serious games in health care is on the rise, as these games motivate treatment adherence, reduce treatment costs, and educate patients and families. However, current serious games fail to offer personalized interventions, ignoring the need to abandon the one-size-fits-all approach. Moreover, these games, with a primary objective other than pure entertainment, are costly and complex to develop and require the constant involvement of a multidisciplinary team. No standardized approach exists on how serious games can be personalized, as existing literature focuses on specific use cases and scenarios. The serious game development domain fails to consider any transfer of domain knowledge, which means this labor-intensive process must be repeated for each serious game. OBJECTIVE We proposed a software engineering framework that aims to streamline the multidisciplinary design process of personalized serious games in health care and facilitates the reuse of domain knowledge and personalization algorithms. By focusing on the transfer of knowledge to new serious games by reusing components and personalization algorithms, the comparison and evaluation of different personalization strategies can be simplified and expedited. In doing so, the first steps are taken in advancing the state of the art of knowledge regarding personalized serious games in health care. METHODS The proposed framework aimed to answer 3 questions that need to be asked when designing personalized serious games: Why is the game personalized? What parameters can be used for personalization? and How is the personalization achieved? The 3 involved stakeholders, namely, the domain expert, the (game) developer, and the software engineer, were each assigned a question and then assigned responsibilities regarding the design of the personalized serious game. The (game) developer was responsible for all the game-related components; the domain expert was in charge of the modeling of the domain knowledge using simple or complex concepts (eg, ontologies); and the software engineer managed the personalization algorithms or models integrated into the system. The framework acted as an intermediate step between game conceptualization and implementation; it was illustrated by developing and evaluating a proof of concept. RESULTS The proof of concept, a serious game for shoulder rehabilitation, was evaluated using simulations of heart rate and game scores to assess how personalization was achieved and whether the framework responded as expected. The simulations indicated the value of both real-time and offline personalization. The proof of concept illustrated how the interaction between different components worked and how the framework was used to simplify the design process. CONCLUSIONS The proposed framework for personalized serious games in health care identifies the responsibilities of the involved stakeholders in the design process, using 3 key questions for personalization. The framework focuses on the transferability of knowledge and reusability of personalization algorithms to simplify the design process of personalized serious games.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Carlier
- Internet Technology and Data Science Lab, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Interuniversity Microelectronics Centre, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Vince Naessens
- Internet Technology and Data Science Lab, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Femke De Backere
- Internet Technology and Data Science Lab, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Interuniversity Microelectronics Centre, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Filip De Turck
- Internet Technology and Data Science Lab, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Interuniversity Microelectronics Centre, Ghent, Belgium
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Magis - A magical adventure: Using a mobile game to deliver an ACT intervention for elementary schoolchildren in classroom settings. JOURNAL OF CONTEXTUAL BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE 2023; 27:26-33. [PMID: 36471822 PMCID: PMC9714081 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2022.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Studies of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have shown that this health emergency has affected especially young people. Supporting the well-being of children is thus particularly urgent. However, the high prevalence of ill-being among children requires novel approaches to providing help. Health care resources are limited, and many children did not receive support even before the pandemic. The current study presents a novel approach to delivering brief interventions for school-aged children. A mobile game based on acceptance and commitment therapy was used to increase psychological flexibility and well-being among 10 to 12-year-old schoolchildren. A sample of 106 students played the game in four weekly sessions as part of normal teaching practice in school. The effectiveness of the brief game intervention was examined as a universal intervention among the whole sample and among subgroups created on the basis of baseline psychological flexibility (i.e., based on the need for an intervention). The results show that higher psychological flexibility was associated with less emotional and behavioral problems, higher health-related quality of life, mood, and school satisfaction, and less loneliness (r = 0.46-0.63). While a significant effect was not detected in the whole sample, the subsample of children with initially high psychological inflexibility benefitted from participating in the intervention (Cohen's d = 0.35). These preliminary findings suggest that the brief game-based intervention can increase psychological flexibility among children when the need for an intervention is considered. Further research is necessary to examine the stability of improvements in psychological flexibility.
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14
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David OA, Magurean S. Positive Attention Bias Trained during the Rethink Therapeutic Online Game and Related Improvements in Children and Adolescents' Mental Health. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9111600. [PMID: 36360328 PMCID: PMC9688550 DOI: 10.3390/children9111600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Attentional bias towards positive stimuli is considered a resilience factor for mental health and well-being. The aim of the present study was to analyze the effects of an attentional bias training for positive faces in a preventive therapeutic game for children and adolescents. The sample of 54, which consisted of children and adolescents aged between 10-16 years, played the REThink game, which included an attentional bias training level based on the visual search paradigm, where children had the task to quickly find the happy face among other angry faces. We measured mental health, and positive and negative emotions and analyzed their associations between changes in attention bias. Attentional bias indicators demonstrated acceptable reliability and results showed that increases in attentional bias towards positive faces were associated with improvements in children and adolescents' conduct problems, hyperactivity, and peer relationship problems. Overall, our results support the protective role of training attentional bias towards positive faces as part of a preventive therapeutic game for children and adolescents.
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15
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Martinez K, Menéndez-Menéndez MI, Bustillo A. Awareness, Prevention, Detection, and Therapy Applications for Depression and Anxiety in Serious Games for Children and Adolescents: Systematic Review. JMIR Serious Games 2021; 9:e30482. [PMID: 34927589 PMCID: PMC8726021 DOI: 10.2196/30482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression and anxiety in children and adolescents are major health problems worldwide. In recent years, serious games research has advanced in the development of tools to address these mental health conditions. However, there has not been an extensive analysis of these games, their tendencies, and capacities. OBJECTIVE This review aims to gather the most current serious games, published from 2015 to 2020, with a new approach focusing on their applications: awareness, prevention, detection, and therapy. The purpose is also to analyze the implementation, development, and evaluation of these tools to obtain trends, strengths, and weaknesses for future research lines. METHODS The identification of the serious games through a literature search was conducted on the databases PubMed, Scopus, Wiley, Taylor and Francis, Springer, PsycINFO, PsycArticles, Web of Science, and Science Direct. The identified records were screened to include only the manuscripts meeting these criteria: a serious game for PC, smartphone, or virtual reality; developed by research teams; targeting only depression or anxiety or both; aiming specifically at children or adolescents. RESULTS A total of 34 studies have been found that developed serious games for PC, smartphone, and virtual reality devices and tested them in children and adolescents. Most of the games address both conditions and are applied in prevention and therapy. Nevertheless, there is a trend that anxiety is targeted more in childhood and depression targeted more in adolescence. Regarding design, the game genres arcade minigames, adventure worlds, and social simulations are used, in this order. For implementation, these serious games usually require sessions of 1 hour and are most often played using a PC. Moreover, the common evaluation tools are normalized questionnaires that measure acquisition of skills or reduction of symptoms. Most studies collect and compare these data before and after the participants play. CONCLUSIONS The results show that more awareness and detection games are needed, as well as games that mix the awareness, prevention, detection, and therapy applications. In addition, games for depression and anxiety should equally target all age ranges. For future research, the development and evaluation of serious games should be standardized, so the implementation of serious games as tools would advance. The games should always offer support while playing, in addition to collecting data on participant behavior during the game to better analyze their learning. Furthermore, there is an open line regarding the use of virtual reality for these games due to the capabilities offered by this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Martinez
- Department of History, Geography and Communication, University of Burgos, Burgos, Spain
| | | | - Andres Bustillo
- Department of Computer Engineering, University of Burgos, Burgos, Spain
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Mahon-Daly S, Jeyasingam N. A narrative literature review: the application of video games as therapeutic tools for psychological therapy. Australas Psychiatry 2021; 29:614-616. [PMID: 34157897 DOI: 10.1177/10398562211022751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Video games (games played by electronically manipulating images produced by a computer programme on a screen) are being developed with a specific focus on treating mental health. This narrative review briefly discusses the history of video games and mental health. It then provides a critical discussion on the application of video games as therapeutic tools, then discusses the notion of 'serious games' (games designed for a primary purpose other than entertainment) and their applicability. CONCLUSIONS Serious games have preliminary evidence to support their use practically in the clinical treatment of mental illness. Future randomised control trials are necessary to further explore their efficacy and potential areas of application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Mahon-Daly
- Northern Sydney Local Health District, Saint Leonards, NSW, Australia
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David OA, Predatu R, Cardoș RA. Effectiveness of the REThink therapeutic online video game in promoting mental health in children and adolescents. Internet Interv 2021; 25:100391. [PMID: 33996508 PMCID: PMC8099491 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2021.100391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Although evidence-based interventions exist, estimates suggest that about 60% percent of children and adolescents with mental health disorders do not receive the treatment they need. In this context, one expanding strategy for increasing access to mental health care for children and adolescents is the use therapeutic, or serious, games. REThink is one such therapeutic game, developed to offer a CBT-based prevention that was documented in a controlled trial to develop psychological resilience in children and adolescents, aged between 10 and 16, helping them learn healthy strategies for coping with dysfunctional negative emotions such as anxiety, anger and depression. This study aims to test the effectiveness of the REThink therapeutic online video game in promoting emotional health in children and adolescents in a pilot study. Participants (N = 31), aged between 10 and 16 years, were recruited on a volunteer basis from a school. Emotional problems, irrational beliefs, negative automatic thoughts, rational beliefs, and problem solving abilities were assessed pre- and post-using the therapeutic game. We also measured participants' satisfaction with the game. Results obtained show improvements in terms of emotional problems of the youths, their irrational beliefs, negative automatic thoughts and high levels of intervention satisfaction. of this study are in support of the previous findings suggesting that the REThink online game can be a valuable tool for large-scale mental health efforts aimed at the prevention of emotional disorders in children and adolescents, in accordance with evidence-based prevention protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oana A. David
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Babeş-Bolyai University, Romania,DATA Lab, The International Institute for the Advanced Studies of Psychotherapy and Applied Mental Health, Babes-Bolyai University Cluj-Napoca, Romania,Corresponding authors at: Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Babeș-Bolyai University, 37 Republicii St., 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Răzvan Predatu
- DATA Lab, The International Institute for the Advanced Studies of Psychotherapy and Applied Mental Health, Babes-Bolyai University Cluj-Napoca, Romania,Doctoral School “Evidence-based assessment and psychological interventions”, Babeș-Bolyai University, Romania
| | - Roxana A.I. Cardoș
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Babeş-Bolyai University, Romania,DATA Lab, The International Institute for the Advanced Studies of Psychotherapy and Applied Mental Health, Babes-Bolyai University Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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