Videogames for Emotion Regulation: A Systematic Review.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Digital Health

Background:

• Emotion regulation (ER) is crucial for mental health and wellbeing.
• Video games are emerging as a tool for managing affective states, but their effectiveness requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and assess the quantity and quality of research on video games for ER.
• To explore the effects and methods of using video games for emotion regulation.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted following PRISMA guidelines.
• Additional studies were included based on expert recommendations.

Main Results:

• Twenty-three studies were included, categorized into cross-sectional/qualitative, experimental, and serious game intervention groups.
• Frequent play of commercial video games appears more beneficial for ER than short-term serious game interventions.

Conclusions:

• Commercial video games offer greater potential for ER improvement through gameplay and fictional engagement compared to bespoke serious games.
• The field of video games for ER is nascent, requiring cautious interpretation of findings and future inclusion of clinical populations.