Enhancing the Therapy Experience Using Principles of Video Game Design

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Therapeutic Interventions
• Game Design

Background:

• Therapy experiences can be enhanced by incorporating principles from other fields.
• Video game design offers a rich source of motivational and learning strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential benefits of applying contemporary video game design principles to therapy.
• To enhance therapy experiences through evidence-based design strategies.

Main Methods:

• Presentation of six key video game design principles.
• Discussion of the relevance of these principles for enriching clinical experiences.

Main Results:

• Video game design principles like essential experience, discovery, risk-taking, generalization, reward systems, and identity can positively impact therapy.
• These principles are linked to improved client motivation, learning, skill transfer, and self-perception.
• The principles are supported by existing educational literature on student motivation and learning.

Conclusions:

• The discussed principles offer avenues for research and intervention in clinical practice.
• These strategies can reinforce or advance current therapeutic approaches.
• Integrating game design into therapy holds promise for improved patient outcomes.