5_1 Project Draft Part Two_Persuasive Essay With Research
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Brady 1
Nadia L Brady
ENG 190
Prof. Karen Shields
11 Feb. 2024
5-1 Project Draft Part Two: Persuasive Essay with Research
Tabletop Roleplaying Games in Mental Health Applications
In light of the growing emphasis on mental health awareness, we must grapple with complex inquiries surrounding the need for novel interventions and the distinct therapeutic possibilities offered by roleplaying games (RPG), specifically tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPG). In the past, discussions on mental health dilemmas were simpler due to prevalent stigma and misunderstanding. However, the landscape has shifted with the increased spotlight on mental health, leading to revised treatment methodologies and the exploration of innovative solutions. Among these emerging strategies, TTRPGs have emerged as a promising avenue, blending elements of creativity, social engagement, and therapeutic benefits. To address the mental health challenges faced by individuals, mental health professionals must incorporate TTRPGs as a form
of therapy in inpatient and outpatient programs. This change will be effective because it provides
a sense of community and social interaction, encourages creative expression, and promotes personal growth and development.
Engaging in RPGs and TTRPGs can effectively alleviate loneliness, anxiety, and depression by fostering a sense of social interaction. While critics may argue that social interaction can be achieved through other means, TTRPGs offer individuals the opportunity to connect with others, establish relationships, and develop supportive social networks. Anthony Bean's exploration of
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"geek therapy" in the article "Geek Therapy for Professionals" sheds light on how TTRPGs can be utilized in therapy sessions to engage clients, encourage creativity, and enhance social interaction in a safe and controlled environment. Published in Psychology Today, a reputable journal in the field of psychology and mental health, this source underscores the significance of TTRPGs in therapy sessions conducted by mental health professionals. By incorporating TTRPGs into community engagement programs, these games not only contribute to addressing feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression but also promote social well-being and mental health. To collectively address mental health challenges, it is crucial for mental health professionals to explore integrating TTRPGs as a therapeutic tool within community engagement
programs to promote social interaction and alleviate feelings of isolation. (Bean).
Tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPGs) provide a unique platform for creative expression,
offering therapeutic benefits and empowerment to individuals. One of the key ways in which TTRPGs can help address mental health challenges is by nurturing creative expression. While some critics may suggest that creative outlets exist through other means, the immersive and collaborative nature of TTRPGs distinguishes them as a distinct form of therapeutic expression.
An article titled "Battling Demons: Daniel Hand Explores Tabletop Roleplaying Games as a Therapeutic Intervention" by Daniel Hand sheds light on the perspective of mental health professionals who have integrated RPGs into therapy. Hand, an author, illustrator, game designer, and integrative counselor practicing in the United Kingdom brings a wealth of experiential knowledge in both therapy and gaming. The article was published in Therapy Today, a journal associated with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), enhancing its credibility. Hand emphasizes that participants in TTRPGs have the opportunity to craft characters, storylines, and worlds, enabling them to delve into their
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imagination and express themselves freely, stressing that "Participants have the opportunity to create and develop characters, storylines, and worlds, allowing them to explore their imagination and express themselves." (Hand). If we hope to effectively address mental health challenges, it is vital to recognize the significance of fostering creative expression through TTRPGs. This creative outlet not only fosters personal growth and a sense of achievement but also contributes to overall mental well-being. (Hand). It is essential to consider viewpoints and steer clear of biased sources to ensure a thorough understanding of the health benefits linked to TRPGs. Incorporating diverse voices and avoiding biased sources are key strategies for achieving this comprehensive understanding. While some argue that biased sources can offer valuable insights, relying solely on them can ignore alternative perspectives and conflicting evidence, resulting in an incomplete assessment. Using biased sources can lead to a narrow perspective aligned with a specific agenda. In this case, it could hamper a well-rounded analysis of the therapeutic benefits and effectiveness of TTRPGs (Ruszkiewicz). In their study "Exploring the Efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Roleplaying Games as an Intervention for Adults with Social Anxiety," The study investigates the effectiveness of combining cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with roleplaying games as an
intervention for adults with social anxiety. This research explores the potential benefits of TTRPGs in enhancing social interaction, developing skills, and alleviating anxiety symptoms. The credibility of this source is bolstered by its publication in the peer-reviewed journal "Social Work with Groups," indicating rigorous evaluation by experts in the field. This study directly addresses the research question by examining the mental health benefits of participating in TTRPGs, particularly for individuals with social anxiety. It delves into how these games can be effectively integrated into community engagement programs to address social anxiety symptoms
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and promote personal growth. It is essential to emphasize that the study acknowledges a scarcity of quantitative research in biased intervention. Potential bias could arise from the researchers' enthusiasm for investigating a novel therapy approach and advocating for integrating RPGs and TTRPGs into evidence-based practices. Nevertheless, the study puts forth an encouraging solution to this challenge by proposing the integration of CBT with TTRPGs. This fusion has the
potential to revolutionize bias intervention, fostering a more inclusive and fair society, albeit with a recognition of the necessity for further research and empirical evidence. The target audience, comprising mental health professionals and researchers, is likely to respond positively,
given their receptiveness to innovative methodologies and interest in exploring the effectiveness of diverse interventions. To gain reliable insights into the mental health advantages of TTRPGs and their impact on individual well-being, it is imperative to consider various perspectives and maintain a balanced and impartial approach. This approach facilitates a comprehensive assessment that accounts for diverse viewpoints, leading to a more precise comprehension of the topic. (Varrette et al).
Integrating tabletop roleplaying games into mental health treatment settings, particularly in inpatient programs, can offer consistent group settings that promote social interaction and creative expression among participants. By introducing TTRPGs in inpatient settings, mental health professionals have the opportunity to provide individuals with a sense of community and belonging, facilitating personal growth and empowerment during their stay. Exploring the implementation of TTRPGs in Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) or Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) can further support individuals transitioning out of psychiatric units, offering a continuum of care that promotes mental well-being and engagement. Failing to embrace and integrate TTRPGs as a therapeutic tool in both inpatient and outpatient programs may result in
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missed opportunities to enhance mental health treatment outcomes and limit the holistic benefits these games can offer participants.
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Works Cited
Hand, Daniel. "Battling demons: Daniel Hand Explores Tabletop Roleplaying Games as a
Therapeutic Intervention." Therapy Today, Dec. 2021, pp. 38–41.
Bean, Anthony. “Geek Therapy for Professionals.”
Psychology Today
, Sussex Publishers, LLC, 13 Aug. 2020, www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/geek-therapy-
professionals/202008/geek-therapy-professionals.
Malapani, Chara. “Covid-19 and the Need for Action on Mental Health.”
Columbia University Department of Psychiatry
, Columbia University, 9 Oct. 2020, www.columbiapsychiatry.org/news/covid-19-and-need-action-mental-health.
Moore, Joe.
Are Games Art? We Asked Three Developers. Here’s How They Answered.
, The Washington Post, 13 Nov. 2019, www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/ 2019/video-
games/are-video-games-art-makers-of-dreams-no-mans-sky-and-concrete-genie/.
Ruszkiewicz, John J.
How to Write Anything: A Guide and Reference
. 5th ed., Bedford/St. Martins, 2022.
Varrette, Matthew, et al. "Exploring the Efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and
Roleplaying Games as an Intervention for Adults with Social Anxiety." Social Work with Groups, vol. 46, no. 2, 2023, pp. 140-156.
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