Abstract
Abstract
Purpose of Review
Gamification has emerged as a novel technique for improving mental health and enhancing treatment effectiveness. This paper provides an overview of gamification approaches to mental health intervention, identifies factors that may be related to variations in treatment effectiveness, and discusses possible strategies for tailoring gamified interventions to clients’ needs.
Recent Findings
Recent research has documented the potential of gamified mental health interventions for bolstering mental wellness and mitigating psychological symptoms. However, their effectiveness may vary depending on study design-related factors and gender-specific considerations. Literature reviews have also identified yet-to-be resolved issues surrounding the possible strengths and weaknesses of the personalization versus standardization of gamification, as well as the potential benefits of gamification for increasing engagement versus the potential risks of over-engagement and behavioral addiction to gamified components.
Summary
This review highlights the need for careful planning and execution of gamified mental health interventions to optimize their effectiveness and suitability for meeting clients’ individual needs and preferences.
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Subject
Psychiatry and Mental health
Reference76 articles.
1. •• Sinha N. Introducing gamification for advancing current mental healthcare and treatment practices. In: Hareesha KS, editor. Marques G, Bhoi AK, Albuquerque VHCd. IoT in healthcare and ambient assisted living. Singapore: Springer; 2021. p. 223–41. This chapter highlights the advantages of gamification in tapping into psychological mechanisms and increasing motivation to make therapeutic changes.
2. • Litvin S, Saunders R, Maier MA, Lüttke S. Gamification as an approach to improve resilience and reduce attrition in mobile mental health interventions: a randomized controlled trial. PLoS One. 2020;15(9):e0237220. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0237220. This randomized controlled trial illustrates the effectiveness of a gamified mobile mental health intervention in relieving anxiety symptoms.
3. Maloney AE, Threlkeld KA, Cook WL. Comparative effectiveness of a 12-week physical activity intervention for overweight and obese youth: exergaming with “dance dance revolution.” Games Health J. 2012;1(2):96–103. https://doi.org/10.1089/g4h.2011.0009.
4. Adamakis M. Nike+ Training Club, an ultimate personal trainer: mobile app user guide. Br J Sports Med. 2018;52(13):e2.
https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2017-098414.
5. McGonigal J. SuperBetter: a revolutionary approach to getting stronger, happier, braver and more resilient. London, United Kingdom: Penguin; 2015.