Best Video Games for Treating Social Phobia

Social Phobia or Social Anxiety Disorder is a mental condition where those who suffer from it are scared of being watched or being judged by others.

There is a type of behavioral therapy called Social Skills Training (SST) that aims to improve the social skills of people who are suffering from this disorder.

There are video games that can help with this disorder as shown in some studies. The games are those that can help with social skills training.

The games that can help in managing Social Phobia are:

Castaway Paradise

The behavioral therapy seen in Castaway Paradise is when it rewards the player for its social interactions. You will be living in a village where you have to develop your own space as well as help out your neighbors with their problems. Every neighbor that you help will earn your reputation points.

The Sims 4

The Sims 4 imitates the reward system of the social interactions of everyday life. Players are forced to pay attention to the character and gauge and respond accordingly. This is why this game is one of the best ones out there to treat social anxiety disorders.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Animal Crossing New Horizons is a great game to treat social disorders because it rewards its players for being functioning members of society. The game encourages selflessness and being considerate of others. Those traits are that those with social phobia should learn.

My Time At Portia

My Time At Portia emphasizes the importance of giving with its relationship system. Players are granted points for how they associate with other characters. The more that you give, the more points you will earn. The positive reinforcement in the game is also seen in social skills training programs.

The Last of Us Part 2

The Last Of Us Part 2 lets players make choices that have consequences. This will test the player’s moral compass as well as their capacity to make good judgment during tough situations. Just like in real life, choices must be made. The game features behavioral referrals which is a part of the social skills training technique.

Two Point Hospital

Two Point Hospital will have players hiring, training, and managing employees. There are a lot of things to consider when hiring like looking at their personality traits, and proficiencies. Doing this will reinforce behavioral therapy because a sense of accomplishment is available when everything in the hospital runs smoothly.

Minecraft

Minecraft is known for its community that is active and passionate. Players get to meet a lot of other players through the game, which offers a low-risk environment for non-verbal social interactions that will let you express yourself through both gestures and art.

Sakura Wars

The social skills training in Sakura Wars can be seen in the game’s LIPS element (live and interactive picture system). There is a set of dialogue available which players can choose from and will determine what the story will be. This will train players to evaluate situations with social interactions and thing of an acceptable response.

Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley a great game for treating social phobia because of the different personalities the NPCs have. This helps players assess their actions first and then respond to the situation. A big plus is that the game is simple and easy to play.

Among Us

Among Us is a game that will practice player’s active listening which is one of the key components of social skills training. The game has a lot of social interactions where players would need to listen to each other and assess if they are being genuine or not.

Video games are a great way to help in treating social phobia but it in itself is not a cure. Make sure to contact a mental health specialist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. You can also ask your specialist about including the games that we listed as a part of your treatment.