An interesting study from the British Medical Journal found that the group of teenagers battling suppression who participated in this study by playing SPARX, an 3D computer game designed by the researchers, found it just as beneficial as having a one on one therapy session. This actually makes sense to me, I can understand that a video game can serve as an escape for those battling depression. Also, I like that the fantasy game itself was appropriately designed and targeted for this specific study instead of utilizing one of many games currently popular in today’s market. The study describes the game as one where a single player tries to undertake a series of challenges to restore balance in a virtual world dominated by what they call “GNATs” or “gloomy negative automatic thoughts”.
Many teens suffer from depression but often times don’t speak out or seek help, so to hear this study could possibly serve another therapeutic alternative for them is great news!
Click here for details on the study.
