Video games are one of the most prevalent forms of entertainment in the market today. It is estimated that 65% of adult Americans actively played video games in 2018 (ESA, 2019). While video games have been examined for their psychological effects since the 1990s, these studies were mostly centered around their potential negatives, rather than attempting to look at whether or not there are potential positive uses for video games. With the rapid expansion in technological capability, video games are more powerful and immersive than ever before, with virtual reality gaming starting to become a readily affordable, and affordable technology.
Accordingly, researchers have began studying the effect of virtual reality video games in relation to various mental health issues. While there have been a number of areas in which video games have been shown to improve the symptoms of various mental illnesses, some of the most promising data as it relates to VR gaming specifically is in relation to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (“PTSD”).
One of the most effective methods of treating PTSD is through the use of exposure therapy. This is where a patient is exposed to imagery that they relate with the traumatic event that is creating stress. Over time, the patient will become desensitized to these images, and will learn to be able to have things that were once trauma inducing elicit no response what so ever. The beauty of virtual reality technology is that it has the ability to create an exposure experience that is all-encompassing, and far more realistic. This can be used to expose the patient to a much more realistic version of their fears, which can theoretically result in a far greater degree of desensitization than traditional treatment has been able to accomplish (Tull, 2019).
As the symptoms of PTSD can be quite debilitating for countless individuals, the vast majority of whom are veterans, any piece of technology that is able to reduce the symptoms of PTSD is something with incredible value. Additionally, VR technology is still quite primitive, with new improvements being made on a daily basis, so the ability of this technology to make effective change in the lives of the individuals who suffer from PTSD will only increase over time. Finally, the fact that VR technology is something that is relatively affordable, easy to obtain, and doesn’t require insurance further illustrates that this technology is something that needs to be examined for its potential benefits as much as possible.
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