Computer Games in the Human Services—A Review

Summary Specific therapeutic currently used in human services are described and analyzed in this article. Games that have been created specifically for use in the human services are presented in two categories. A number of games purpose-defined for ise by youth are described first. Therapeutic goals, game purpose, role of facilitator, format and settings for play are earned for each of these games. Examples of purposes for such games are imparting information to young offenders, increasing impulse control in targeted adolescents, and aiding players in tecoming more cooperative and enthusiastic about treatment. Secondly, three select games purpose-designed for use by adults and elderly are outlined. In conclusion, the adaptation of commercial software to fit the needs of distinct client populations is discussed and examples of this occurrence are given. Implications of future computer game development for use in the human service field are discussed.

[1]  William France,et al.  Building a Child Care Staff Learning Game , 1972 .

[2]  Gertrude Wilson,et al.  Social group work practice. , 1950 .

[3]  D. Schoech,et al.  A computer-assisted therapeutic game for adolescents: Initial development and comments. , 2008 .

[4]  R. Gardner,et al.  The game of checkers as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool in child psychotherapy. , 1969, Acta paedopsychiatrica.

[5]  Hy Resnick,et al.  Electronic technology and rehabilitiation: A computerized simulation game for youthful offenders , 1986 .

[6]  Claire Rabin.  Towards the Use and Development of Games for Social Work Practice , 1983 .

[7]  John A. Constantine.  Computers and Family Therapy: An Epilogue , 1985 .

[8]  Peter W. Hewson,et al.  Effect of instruction using microcomputer simulations and conceptual change strategies on science learning , 1986 .

[9]  Barbara B. Varenhorst,et al.  Game Theory, Simulations and Group Counseling. , 1973 .

[10]  J. J. Harvey.  Expert systems: present and future , 1987 .

[11]  A. H. Scheller join,et al.  Social Group Work , 1956 .

[12]  Shraga Serok,et al.  Therapeutic Uses of Games , 1983 .

[13]  S Weisman,et al.  Computer games for the frail elderly. , 1983, The Gerontologist.

[14]  Elaine K. Hollander,et al.  An Innovative Therapy and Enrichment Program for Senior Adults Utilizing the Personal Computer , 1986 .

[15]  Robert J. MacFadden.  The Microcomputer Millennium: Transforming the Small Social Agency , 1986 .

[16]  Paula Gelber Dromi,et al.  Programming Revisited: The Miftan Experience , 1986 .

[17]  E. Erikson.  Childhood and Society , 1965 .

[18]  Betty Schueren.  Video Games: An Exploration of Their Potential as Recreational Activity Programs in Nursing Homes , 1986 .

[19]  Roberta K. Heaven,et al.  Promoting Vitality Among Older Adults With Computers , 1986 .

[20]  Richard B. Powers.  The Commons Game: Teaching Students about Social Dilemmas. , 1986 .

[21]  Cathy Greenblat.  Designing games and simulations , 1987 .

[22]  Luis H. Zayas,et al.  Fantasy Role-Playing for Mutual Aid in Children's Groups , 1986 .