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Using video games to facilitate understanding of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a feasibility study
Thesis   Open access

Using video games to facilitate understanding of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a feasibility study

Thomas Goldman
Master of Science (M.S.), Drexel University
May 2014
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/etd-4468
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Abstract

Digital media Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder--Video games Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder--Education
Our goal was to explore the potential of serious video games by studying a method to facilitate understanding of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) through video game mechanics. To do so, we focused on the concept of procedural rhetoric, a technique used to persuade through interactive processes. Researchers and practitioners believe ADHD can significantly affect the internal human perspective, and cannot be easily understood by those who do not experience its effects. Procedural rhetoric is a concept that can potentially be used to facilitate understanding of a misunderstood perspective, as opposed to other forms of rhetoric such as text, speech, and visuals. In caregivers of ADHD-affected individuals, lack of understanding of the psychological effects of ADHD has been shown to lead to higher stress levels and negative parental practices, resulting in child underachievement. Therefore, understanding facilitation techniques such as video game-based procedural rhetoric are worthy of research. To study this technique, we developed a video game designed to employ a procedural rhetoric based on ADHD research, and performed a feasibility study to acquire data on the game's potential to facilitate understanding of ADHD in caregivers and other adults.

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