OnTrack>An Online Role-Playing Game: A Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Grant

In light of research supporting early first episode psychosis (FEP) intervention models as
well as the efficacy of video gaming to engage young people with FEP in treatment, the
connection between the two needs to be explored. A gaming tool for first-episode psychosis
has the potential to improve patient care; and, decrease stigma associated with
schizophrenia.

Hypothesis:

The investigators hypothesize that Phase 1 of this study will demonstrate that the videogame
is comprehensible, engaging and easy to maneuver. The investigators hypothesize that the
results from the pilot study will suggest that this technologically innovative tool has
potential to enhance positive outcomes of research-tested interventions, such as OnTrackNY,
for individuals with FEP.

Approach:

Our team will develop a prototype game (OnTrack>The Game) in which users play the role of a
person who has experienced FEP and move through animated role-playing scenarios, learning
practical tips for engaging in care, playing mini-games to develop self- advocacy skills,
and seeing stories of hope and recovery (brief video vignettes). The game is designed in an
engaging comic book style in which the player is presented with realistic situations
designed to promote engagement and the development of trusting relationships.

Following development of the prototype, the investigators will conduct a pilot study to
develop preliminary data to determine feasibility of a large-scale Phase 2 effectiveness
study. This pilot study aims to demonstrate proof of concept for OnTrack>The Game. The
investigators will recruit a sample of patients/consumers (n=25) from OnTrackNY sites that
offer services for those experiencing their first psychotic episode. Quantitative data will
be collected through baseline and follow up surveys that utilize instruments to measure
knowledge and attitudes about recovery, perceptions of stigma, feelings of empowerment and
sense of hopefulness. The investigators will also conduct semi-structured interviews with a
subset of participants to explore engagement in treatment and attitudes toward the game.

Inclusion Criteria (Consumers):

- 18 - 30 years of age;

- have experienced a first episode of psychosis;

- have been referred to OnTrack New York in the past 12 months;

- are willing to complete study requirements; and

- provides informed consent

Exclusion Criteria (Consumers):

- non-English speaker;

- not clinically stable (at risk of self harming or others, and/or experiencing
elevated symptoms) and incapable of providing informed consent