Evaluation of a Cognitive-Behavioral Game Design-Based Mobile Game on Alcohol Use for Adolescents

The study sought to determine the effectiveness of a cognitive behavioral game design (CBGD) based mobile game as an alcohol use intervention. An experimental design was used with 140 participants randomly assigned to either play the mobile game (n=69) or a video documentary (n=71). Both groups displayed decrease in intent to use. Although the video intervention was superior in affecting actual use, the game intervention was more powerful in disseminating knowledge of alcohol facts and protective behavioral techniques. Findings suggest the need to consider the use of emotions or apply multi-modal approaches when addressing alcohol-use cognitions, attitudes and behaviors