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COLUMBIA, MO – In a novel approach to combating adolescent substance abuse, researchers at the University of Missouri have found that online games may offer a potent intervention tool. With traditional in-person counseling often proving insufficient, particularly in rural areas lacking access to such services, digital solutions are gaining traction.
Mansoo Yu, a professor in the College of Health Sciences, conducted a comprehensive review of 26 studies focusing on digital interventions, including online games, virtual reality experiences, mobile applications, and video games. His goal was to identify the key elements that contribute to the effectiveness of these interventions in curbing adolescent drinking, smoking, and illicit drug use.
The findings, published in the journal Children, reveal that the most successful digital interventions are personalized, socially engaging, and focused on behavioral change. Yu discovered that games tailored to individual interests, incorporating social competition among friends and family, and promoting positive behavioral shifts yielded the best results.
“When it comes to designing the most effective interventions, you always want to meet people where they are, and the younger generation often prefers to meet up virtually instead of in person,” Yu explained. “Online interventions also increase accessibility in rural areas where in-person clinics and counseling services are not always available.”
Yu emphasized that many adolescents turn to substance abuse as a coping mechanism for underlying mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Therefore, effective digital interventions should offer healthy alternatives.
“Whether it’s sports, mentorship programs, music, painting, outdoor activities, or recreation centers, providing resources for healthier alternatives can be very helpful,” Yu said. “There can also be a social component, such as a point system for rewarding good behavior, to create friendly competition and allow users to play with their friends, parents, and teachers. Peer modeling can be very impactful for adolescents.”
Personalization is another critical factor. Games that incorporate user-specific interests are more likely to engage adolescents and facilitate positive outcomes.
“Hopefully this research helps game designers going forward create the most customized, effective interventions possible,” Yu said. “Mizzou’s strong foundation in both public health and social work, along with its mission as a land-grant university, has given me the opportunity to explore these intersections and advance this work.”
Yu collaborated on the study with colleagues from Ewha Womans University in South Korea.
More information: Serim Lee et al, Game-Based Digital Interventions for Enhancing Positive Development and Addressing Substance Use in Adolescents: A Systematic Review, Children (2024). DOI: 10.3390/children11121554
Provided by University of Missouri.
Disclaimer: While the research indicates promising results, it is important to note that online games should not be considered a replacement for professional medical or psychological treatment. Substance abuse is a complex issue, and individualized treatment plans are essential. The findings presented are based on a review of existing studies and further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effectiveness of digital interventions. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, please seek professional help.
