Date of Award

8-23-2021

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Rhetoric and Writing

First Advisor

Londie Martin

Abstract

PTSD is a pervasive and complicated mental health disorder affecting 20% of US military veterans. Currently, 22 veterans die per day due to suicide, and the majority are not enrolled in VA. As veterans face barriers in seeking care following trauma, many are turning to video games as a form of self-care. Guided by research literature, a veteran survey, and anecdotal evidence from the veteran author, this thesis paper explores ways in which communication through video games can influence PTSD therapy, tapping into their use to increase therapeutic benefits. Seventeen veterans participated in an online survey, which inquired about their gaming habits and opinions on the impact of video game play during PTSD treatment. Though previous research shows a potential benefit, opinions were mixed and inconclusive in this small-scale study. However, key themes were identified that could guide best practices to help improve engagement and retention in mental health programs.

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