Exploring the efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy and role-playing games as an intervention for adults with social anxiety

ABSTRACT

Tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) have increased in popularity as a hobby and allows multiple people to play together online or in person. Group activities such as TTRPGs have been used to improve social skills and mental well-being Although there is qualitative and anecdotal studies and reports about the efficacy of the therapeutic application of TTRPGs, no related studies have employed quantitative measures or mental health screening tools. This study explored whether intentionally introduced cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) delivered through the medium of TTRPG groups could positively affect social skills, reduce anxiety symptoms and behaviors, and enhance the mental well-being of participants. Data was collected from May 2020 to February 2021 using the Social Phobia Inventory, Generalized Anxiety Disorder Assessment, Social Skills Inventory, and Group Satisfaction Scale and debriefs with participants. The study was completed virtually. All the groups showed an average decrease in self-reported anxiety; one of the therapeutic TTRPG groups decreased in self-reported social anxiety, while the others remained the same. All of them showed improved social skill scores and the participants were very satisfied with the overall group experience, thus suggesting that their needs were met.

KEYWORDS:

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
• Social Anxiety
• Group Therapy
• Table-Top Role Playing Games
• Therapy Screeners

Acknowledgments

The researchers would like to thank the Harrisburg University of Science and Technology for their acknowledgment, support, financial grant, and services.

Disclosure statement

Berkenstock Jr., Jack MHS & Varrette, Matthew B.Sc. BSW MSW were two of the clinicians who ran the groups and were financially compensated for their time at The Bodhana Group’s regular rates of per hour service. Since the clinical groups were based on the practices of the agency, the non-profit will use the results to further the study and practice of TTRPGs.

Data availability

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/11aDSWYvJcXy6-DilwaM7dC49ZykKDVR5?usp=sharing

Supplementary material

Supplemental data for this article can be accessed online at https://doi.org/10.1080/01609513.2022.2146029

Correction Statement

This article has been corrected with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by a Presidential Technology and Science Research grant by the Harrisburg University of Science and Technology.