An evaluation of a solution focused computer game in adolescent interventions.

Full Abstract

Many adolescents experience difficulties with traditional face-to-face mental health care approaches. Personal Investigator (PI) is a 3D computer game specifically designed for use in adolescent interventions. The game implements a model of Solution Focused Therapy. It aims to assist in easing the difficulties experienced by adolescents with direct face-to-face approaches. In sessions a therapist and adolescent sit together at a computer and play PI. Issues raised in the game serve as a context for more detailed discussions between the therapist and client. This article describes a study in which PI was used with 22 adolescent clients, attending mental health care services due to a variety of difficulties. Whilst further trials are required, results indicate positive benefits of using PI. PI can help in building an effective client-therapist relationship, can assist in structuring sessions, and can assist in improving client engagement in the therapeutic process.

Author information

Author/s: Coyle, David (D); Doherty, Gavin (G); Sharry, John (J);

Affiliation: Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland. coyledt(-atsign-)tcd.ie

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Evaluation Studies; Journal Article

Journal: Clinical child psychology and psychiatry (Clin Child Psychol Psychiatry), published in England. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2009-Jul; vol 14 (issue 3) : pp 345-60

Dates: Created 2009/06/11; Completed 2009/08/21;

PMID: 19515752, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 8/21/2009, IMS Date: )

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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