Hitting Reset: Understanding Gamer Culture and Its Implications for Child and Adolescent Treatment

Apex. Halo. Minecraft. Fortnite. LoL. GTA. WoW. Roblox. According to a Pew Research study in2018, an estimated 90% of 13-17-year-old adolescents play video games on their computer, gaming console, or cell phone. Understanding the “Gamer Culture” is critical to the assessment and treatment process, especially for children and adolescents. This workshop will use lecture and demonstration to introduce participants to various forms of gaming and gaming culture. There will be discussion regarding how gaming may intersect the world of sexuality, including in-game pornography and sexual behavior. In addition, the positive and protective aspects of gaming will be presented. The latest trends in therapeutic gaming will be discussed, including the risks and benefits of directly gaming with your child and adolescent clients. This workshop will provide thoughtprovoking, practical ideas for working with children and adolescents who game.

Presenter: David Delmonico, Ph.D., Stephen Kuniak, Ph.D., and Natalie Drozda, Ph.D
Presentation Date: March 26, 2024

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this Lunch and Learn session, attendees will understand and be able to:

1. Understand the”gamer” culture and its relationship with problematic sexual behavior.
2. Engage in basic discussions regarding gaming with their child and adolescent clients.
3. Understand the protective factors that gaming can offer children and adolescents
4. Define therapeutic gaming and know the current trends in this area, including relevant aspects of diversity and equity.
5. Incorporate gaming concepts into treatment planning for children and adolescents who may struggle with their sexual behavior.