First Experiments with an Applied Gaming Intervention for reducing Loneliness of Children with Chronic Illness: Lessons Learned

Abstract

We present the first experiments from a pilot study with Ruby's Mission, an applied gaming intervention for reducing feelings of loneliness in children with a chronic illness. Based on a previously performed literature study, Ruby's Mission sets out to train specific socioemotional skills, through four children sharing emotional experiences. The present study contributes insights in (1) how asymmetrical player roles in a multiplayer game affect in-game social interactions, and (2) if socioemotional skills affect the in-game social interactions in a multiplayer video game. Experiments were conducted during a public event for introducing children to science. A baseline measure of socioemotional skills was made using the emotional awareness questionnaire (EAQ). Video and audio recordings were made during gameplay, and were annotated afterwards on social interaction. As per expectations, results suggest that asymmetrical player roles encourage different levels of social interaction. Analysing the effect of socioemotional skills on an individual player's in-game social interactions, surprisingly revealed a slight negative effect, where social interactions decreased as socioemotional skills improved. Interestingly, when investigating this effect on per gameplay group level, no interaction was found. Results also reveal that external factors such as parent interference, play environment, and peer relations might have an effect on social interactions as well.