Behavioral Theory in the Design of Serious Games

Speakers: Debbe Thompson, Richard Buday, Tom Baranowski

Track: SGS: Learning & Instructional Theory

Format: Lecture

Experience Level: All

Description: Behavioral theory has provided the foundation for behavior change programs in regard to a broad variety of health related or other behaviors. Serious games also need to be guided by behavioral theory. This presentation covers the key constructs in several behavioral theories: Social Cognitive Theory, Theory of Planned Behavior, Social Inoculation Theory; and the corresponding behavior change procedures: goal setting, practical knowledge training, skill training, temptation resistance, tailoring. Examples are provided from several published, peer reviewed outcome evaluations of serious health related games. Future serious games research must assess behavioral outcomes and the role of theoretical constructs mediating or moderating these outcomes.

Idea Takeaway: Attendees are able to report that the mediating variable model provides a framework for designing behavior change games; theoretical variables provide mediating variables to be targeted by change programs; and theory based procedures provide practical means for changing the mediating variables.

Intended Audience: Behavioral theory provides a broad framework that should guide the design, development, implementation and evaluation of serious games. Thus serious games professionals of all types need to attend to become familiar with behavioral theory.