OBJECTIVES: This project aims to contribute to the sustainable gaming industry by
pioneering ChatGPT-integrated behavioral and psychological interventions for Internet Gaming
Disorder (IGD), enhancing social and occupational functionality among affected populations. By
leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), the initiative seeks to deliver personalized, scalable
support mechanisms tailored to individual needs, enhancing healthier gaming habits, and
preventing IGD.

BACKGROUND: Recognizing the NIH's interest in innovative psychological
interventions, the project addresses the multifaceted challenges of IGD. It proposes a novel
approach by integrating the latest ChatGPT into existing digital health strategies, aiming to
bridge critical gaps in the provision of accessible and effective treatment options.
Moreover, this research integrates with the objectives of NCCU's Department of
Kinesiology and Recreation Administration by enhancing the quality of life through leisure,
aligns with the College of Health and Sciences' aim to mitigate health disparities and enhance
scientific knowledge, and supports the university's commitment to innovation, research,
entrepreneurship, and fostering collaborative partnerships.

METHODS: The research methodology is structured into distinct phases, beginning with
collaborative data gathering. This initial phase involves partnering with leading game companies
in the Research Triangle, such as Epic Games, Ubisoft, Insomniac Games, Red Storm Studio,
and Funcom, to access data sources. The study follows the phases below:
Phase 1_Analysis with the latest ChatGPT (Summer & Fall 2024): The study will
utilize the latest ChatGPT to analyze in-game behavior patterns and gaming durations,
identifying risk factors for IGD. It will process in-game chat logs or behavior logs using natural
language processing (NLP) techniques to detect potential addiction indicators. Additionally,
ChatGPT will be trained with the IGD-Short Form (IGD-SF) 9 and Depression Anxiety Stress
Scale (DASS) 21 to enhance the detection of addiction indicators in in-game logs.
Phase 2_Development of Personalized Intervention Strategies Using ChatGPT (Spring
2025): Design ChatGPT-driven interventions that deliver personalized messages and support
based on the user’s specific gaming patterns and psychological needs. This could include sending
recommendation messages to explore cognitive-behavioral therapy and providing educational
content about managing gaming habits.
Phase 3_Health Solutions Evaluation (Summer & Fall 2025): A study with 200 adult
gamers ($20 worth incentives), half receiving ChatGPT interventions, to assess mental health
impacts. Using NLP, IGD-SF9, and DASS 21 for analysis on in-game logs, the study evaluates
the participants’ behavioral changes and compare the intervention and control groups.

EXPECTED RESULTS: The project aims to validate innovative AI-powered
interventions, influencing future digital health solutions and promoting healthier gaming
practices and a sustainable gaming industry. This pilot study will culminate in the submission of
an application for the NIH K01 Mentored Research Scientist Development Award (PAR-18-799),
with the application deadline set for November 18th, 2024.

2024-05-15

2025-05-15