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Zombies vs. Anxiety: An Augmentation Study of Prescribed Video Game Play Compared to Medication in Reducing Anxiety Symptoms

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  • Matthew T. Fish
  • Carmen V. Russoniello
  • Kevin O’Brien

Abstract

Objective . Anxiety is a typical reaction to stress and when uncontrolled, clinical anxiety disorders may develop. Traditional anxiety interventions have established efficacy; however, they are often costly and stigmatizing. This study examined prescribed casual video game (CVG) play added to an SSRI prescription in reducing symptoms of anxiety compared to a two-medication treatment group . Materials and methods . We used data from a larger study examining depression and CVGs. The Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomology screened participants for depression using a score of ≥ 5 (mild depression). Participants chose to participate in the alternative (n = 30) or traditional (n = 24) group. Alternative group participants were prescribed CVG play four times per week for 30-45 minutes over a one-month period. Traditional intervention group participants were prescribed a second medication . The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory was used to test hypotheses. Results . Repeated-measures ANOVA demonstrated a significant decrease in state anxiety scores after the one-month prescription and a medium to large effect for the alternative group. Trait anxiety results did not demonstrate significance; however, the group had a medium effect size . Conclusion . Clinicians should consider these non-stigmatizing and low-cost CVGs as a feasible intervention for patients who wish not to take additional medication.

Suggested Citation

  • Matthew T. Fish & Carmen V. Russoniello & Kevin O’Brien, 2018. "Zombies vs. Anxiety: An Augmentation Study of Prescribed Video Game Play Compared to Medication in Reducing Anxiety Symptoms," Simulation & Gaming, , vol. 49(5), pages 553-566, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:simgam:v:49:y:2018:i:5:p:553-566
    DOI: 10.1177/1046878118773126
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Kenneth F Schulz & Douglas G Altman & David Moher & for the CONSORT Group, 2010. "CONSORT 2010 Statement: Updated Guidelines for Reporting Parallel Group Randomised Trials," PLOS Medicine, Public Library of Science, vol. 7(3), pages 1-7, March.
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    Cited by:

    1. Taylor Sawyer & Mindi Anderson, 2018. "Healthcare Simulation Research in Simulation and Gaming: Past, Present, and Future," Simulation & Gaming, , vol. 49(5), pages 475-478, October.

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