1.2.researchquestion.eng.190.nbrady (5)
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Southern New Hampshire University *
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190-J8075
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English
Date
Apr 3, 2024
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docx
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4
Uploaded by MasterPigeonPerson1046
Nadia L Brady
ENG 190
Prof. Karen Shields
1/14/2024
1-2 Assignment: Research Question
Individuals face various challenges in today's fast-paced and constantly changing world, which can adversely affect their physical and mental well-being. As mental health gains recognition, innovative approaches are emerging to tackle these issues. One such approach is through tabletop role-playing games, which offer a unique combination of creativity, social interaction, and therapeutic potential. I selected the Physical and Mental Health Category from the Project Resources Document, influenced by Innovative Technologies. After reading "COVID-19 and the Need for Action on Mental Health" and "Are games art? We asked three developers. Here is how they answered," I came across a fascinating issue that touches on both topics. The problem is the worsening mental health crisis due to the loss of community because of COVID-19 and the potential use of tabletop
role-playing games as a solution.
GAMING AS A SOLUTION
This perspective asserts that tabletop role-playing games can offer mental health benefits for individuals who are struggling with the mental health crisis that has been worsened by COVID-
19. By providing a sense of community, social interaction, and escapism, tabletop role-playing games can create a safe and compassionate environment where individuals can engage in imaginative exploration, social interaction, and personal growth, leading to a sense of community and improved mental well-being.
LIMITATIONS OF GAMING
It is important to point out that tabletop role-playing games may not provide a complete solution for individuals with severe mental
health issues. These games may only serve as a temporary distraction from addressing underlying problems. While there are
potential benefits of these games, it is important to acknowledge that they have limited reach and effectiveness as a stand-alone solution for addressing the mental health crisis caused by COVID-
19.
INTERESTED PARTIES
Those experiencing mental health challenges are likely to be interested in finding effective coping mechanisms and support systems; I know I am certainly one of them. Tabletop role-playing games can provide a sense of community, social interaction, and a creative outlet, which may alleviate feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression. Those facing mental health issues may hope to find validation and understanding through the exploration
of tabletop gaming as a potential avenue for self-expression and healing.
Mental health professionals are invested in finding innovative and effective therapeutic interventions for their patients. Exploring the
mental health benefits of tabletop role-playing games allows practitioners to broaden their toolkit and offer alternative forms of
therapy. Additionally, understanding the potential of gaming as a therapeutic tool in community engagement programs can help practitioners develop targeted interventions that address the specific needs and challenges arising from the mental health crisis exacerbated by COVID-19.
As a former behavior interventionist and substitute teacher, I can attest that educators are stakeholders in their students' well-
being and mental health. Understanding the therapeutic potential
of tabletop role-playing games can help educators create inclusive and engaging learning environments. By incorporating gaming into their teaching strategies, teachers can foster social connections, develop problem-solving skills, and boost students' confidence, ultimately contributing to their overall mental health and academic success.
Gamers have a vested interest in exploring the mental health benefits of participating in tabletop role-playing games. They may
see an opportunity to enhance their gaming experiences by understanding how these games can positively impact their
mental well-being. Additionally, they may be interested in advocating for the use of gaming as a therapeutic tool, which could help reduce the stigma often associated with therapy and promote its positive attributes.
RESEARCH AND INTENT
The research question I am exploring is: What are the mental health benefits of participating in tabletop role-playing games, and how can they be effectively utilized as a form of therapy in community engagement programs? This question specifically focuses on investigating the potential of tabletop role-playing games as a therapeutic tool in community engagement programs,
with a particular emphasis on addressing the mental health crisis caused by COVID-19-related isolation and loss of community. The purpose of my research is to gain a deeper understanding of the mental health benefits associated with participating in tabletop role-playing games. The research aims to explore how these benefits can be effectively utilized as a form of therapy in community engagement programs. Through this research, we seek to learn more about the potential of gaming to address the mental health crisis worsened by COVID-19 and understand the perspectives and voices within this debatable topic.
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Works Cited
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.