Video Game Thearapy?

[Alex1991]

comparing a video game to combat experiences? really. i think this is a stupid question.

 

[super-dave]

I know the PTSD clinic I go to uses simulated/ video game equipment and they individually program and try to recreate your most stressful experiences in combat. The theory is that you will be stressed or have anxiety while you are doing this individualised therapy,however after long and repeated exposures your anxiety and stress diminishes. Also their equipment also reproduced smells. I have not been to this therapy yet but I have walked by the rooms where thy do it. The screen is not a TV but video googles that gives you a 360 view of the game as you move your head. I am not sure what this therapy is called but I have talked to other vets that do this while I am in the waiting room. This is why I was curious about the combat fps video games. Its no where near as high tech as the va video system but it is something that can be done at home more often and for longer hours.

 

[JarHed]

The idea what you're talking about; exposure to the stressors of combat is at the center of PE or Prolonged Exposure therapy. There's a thread about it here and you can find additional info online as well. I did PE and that's the crux of it. To, over time, desensitize you to the experience that you choose to talk about with your psychologist.

I think I understand what you're talking about Dave. A way to work on what stresses you've gotten from combat in a safe environment.

 

[Spock]

Dave, it is OK to ask a "question." I don't consider it "stupid" just because you asked.

 

[Alex1991]

if a video game could replicate a combat experience we would have 13 year olds running around with ptsd. Comparing ones traumatic events to call of duty is insulting. In my opinion. Its a game. Its designed to be fun.

I wouldnt think this would have to be pointed out, hence why i said it was a stupid question.

 

[super-dave]

Its not too much different than the va video game therapy that's why I mentioned it. Yes I know it does not emit smells like the va system and you don't wear video goggles but the premis is the same.

 

[Jimmy1]

Full Spectrum Warrior was used to treat patients with PTSD in the US. I watched a documentary.
It gave people exposure to their traumas and talked them through it, the scenarios were pretty real.
That was for the Iraq conflict though. Afghanistan was a totally different ball game.

I use video games to escape. My new puppy will let me know if I am playing too much and ignoring him. lol.

 

[Sarg]

Damn, I must be really out of the loop. I stopped at Pacman.

Sarg

 

[JarHed]

When I was a kid, back in the stone age, I lived a couple of blocks from a huge amusement park. The arcade was my favorite place. Back then it was pinball, still a favorite pastime. There were also a few shoot 'em up type of games.

I played Pong till my eyes bled. :eek: Been playing ever since. I'm more selective about what I play now and avoid most online play. Too many ^%%(*&%%$, hacker and the like.

In some ways I think we're just scratching the surface of where those kind of interactive experiences in alternative environments can go. As it was said; It's a Brave New World.

 

[Jimmy1]

I had a discussion once with a psych doing a thesis on this subject. She said the end game they would like would be to type in a scenario into the computer that reflected someones exact surrounds and trauma and talk them through it. The aim, to take the guilt and blame out of it.

 

[Spock]

Sounds like what they do in some intense Guided Imagery sessions but since they can't put someone into the holodeck yet they must rely on your brain-created environment

 

[Alex1991]

Full Spectrum Warrior was used to treat patients with PTSD in the US. I watched a documentary.
It gave people exposure to their traumas and talked them through it, the scenarios were pretty real.

I heard that FSW was originally developed to teach infantry tactics to US section commanders. I have no problem playing these games and can still enjoy them to a degree (my friends do complain i tear them apart for being unrealistic, which they are). Like I said, if a video game truly could simulate a contact experience it would cease to become fun in my opinion.