A novel ACT-based video game to support mental health through embedded learning: a mixed-methods feasibility study protocol

Darren J Edwards, Andrew H Kemp, Darren J Edwards, Andrew H Kemp

Abstract

Introduction: In recent years, serious video games have been used to promote emotional regulation in individuals with mental health issues. Although these therapeutic strategies are innovative, they are limited with respect to scope of treatment, often focusing on specific cognitive skills, to help remediate a specific mental health disorder.

Objective: Here, we propose a protocol for assessing the feasibility of a novel acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)-based video game for young adults.

Methods and analysis: The Medical Research Council (MRC) framework will be used for developing a complex intervention to design and test the feasibility of an ACT-based video game intervention using a mixed-methods approach involving qualitative and quantitative data. The primary outcomes will include feasibility testing of recruitment processes and the acceptability of the intervention through qualitative interviews, attendance and rates of attrition. Secondary outcomes will involve a series of quantitative questionnaires to obtain effect sizes for power analysis, allowing for the ideal sample size for an appropriately powered, randomised controlled trial to be determined.

Ethics and dissemination: This study has been approved by the Psychology Department Research Ethics Committee (2020-4929-3923) at Swansea University in the UK. Dissemination activities will involve publications in peer-reviewed journals, presentations at local and national conferences and promotion through social media.

Trial registration number: NCT04566042.

Keywords: anxiety disorders; depression & mood disorders; impulse control disorders.

Conflict of interest statement

Competing interests: At the time of writing this, DJE is discussing with Agor IP at Swansea University the potential to commercialise the described video game as a mobile application; however, at this time no agreements have been made or signed. AHK has no competing interests.

© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2020. Re-use permitted under CC BY-NC. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
First scene in ‘ACTing Mind’, the character, Steve, is depressed and alone.
Figure 2
Figure 2
An example scene, where the character ‘Steve’ is in his own mind, and can see his own memories, through his Mindscape machine.

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