A novel jigsaw game with eye‐tracking: A multimodel interaction based on psycholinguistics for ADHD therapeutic

• Published in: Computer animation and virtual worlds Vol. 35; no. 1
• Main Author: Xinru, Wu
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Hoboken, USA John Wiley & Sons, Inc 01.01.2024; Wiley Subscription Services, Inc
• Subjects: ADHD; Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; Children; digital therapy; eye‐tracking; Games; graphical human‐computer interaction; Hyperactivity; Psycholinguistics; Psychotherapy; Tracking; user experience design
• ISSN: 1546-4261; 1546-427X
• DOI: 10.1002/cav.2214

Attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) causes impulsive or hyperactive behaviors and emotional outbursts or trouble focusing. Simple psychotherapy has difficulty achieving desired therapeutic effects, and ADHD diagnoses in adults and children are increasing. However, e‐health games may mitigate the limitations of traditional methods by providing an ecologically relevant experience. In this paper, inspired by psycholinguistics, multimodal interaction, and he Pupil‐CR method, we have developed a narrative game therapy with eye‐tracking to enhance dyslexia and attention deficit manifestations. Using the situated discourses in the game's interactive narration, ADHD patients can concentrate and reduce anxiety and impulsivity. To evaluate the efficacy in improving attention a controlled trial (N = 48) randomly assigned volunteers in 1:1:1 to an eye‐tracking jigsaw game or two control groups. The principal measure was the average difference in attention comparison score (ACS) of the test of variables of attention (TOVA) preintervention and post‐intervention periods. Based on significant differences observed between the groups, we concluded the eye‐tracking jigsaw game could serve as a viable ADHD intervention for children. This study developed an innovative ADHD intervention integrating psycholinguistics, multimodle interaction, and eye‐tracking technology. Participants played an immersive narrative jigsaw game with integrated eye‐tracking designed to enhance concentration and impulse control through situated discourse and rewards. The game was compared to active controls in a randomized trial of adults with ADHD using validate clinical attention and response inhibition scales. The novel integration of storytelling, puzzles, and eye‐tracking in a digital gaming format represents a unique approach to improving ADHD symptoms.