SAEM: A Serious Game for Emotional Regulation Problems in Adolescents

A Serious Game for Psychological Assessment and Intervention in Adolescents With Emotional Regulation Problems

This study aims to assess the effects of an intervention to improve emotional regulation skills in adolescents with affective (anxiety and/or depression) and behavioral problems.

Emotional regulation skills and strategies are a protective factor against various problems and psychopathologies. The development and maintenance of affective symptoms are usually very harmful to the adolescent and for his/her family and social environment and can lead to other more serious psychological problems (depression, anxiety, adaptive disorders, etc.) or problems of socio-educational maladjustment.

This study aims to improve the emotional regulation of adolescents who present affective symptoms related to anxiety, depression, or behavioral problems, such as difficulties in their interpersonal relationships, impulsivity, anxiety, anger attacks, low tolerance to frustration, apathy, or sadness. The intervention program, applied through a video game, is an intervention protocol for emotional well-being that has been tested and validated in an adolescent population with emotional and behavioral problems.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Between 12 and 16 years old
• Show affective symptoms associated with depression and anxiety or behavior problems
• Show willingness to participate in the research study
• Understand written and spoken Spanish
• Show stability in treatment dosage, if taking medication.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Exhibit incapacitating neurological and/or intellectual impairment
• Have a diagnosis of severe mental disorder
• Substance abuse addiction or dependence