Skip to main content
ARS Home » Plains Area » Houston, Texas » Children's Nutrition Research Center » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #214466
Title: Behavioral Theory in the Design of Serious Games

Author
item Baranowski, Thomas
item BUDAY, RICHARD - ARCHIMAGE
item Thompson, Deborah - Debbe

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 12/1/2006
Publication Date: 3/1/2007
Citation: Baranowski, T., Buday, R., Thompson, D. 2007. Behavioral theory in the design of serious games [abstract]. In: Game Developers Conference 2007 Program Guide, Serious Games Summit Sessions, March 5-9, 2007, San Francisco, California. p. 45.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: 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.