OCD and Empathy Games : Using empathy games to inform the public about ODC

Abstract: This research focuses on obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and how games focused on making the player feel empathy (empathy games) can increase the public’s general knowledge of the disorder. The disorder is currently commonly misunderstood and is not always taken seriously, something that potentially could hurt those with OCD. The stigma surrounding OCD sometimes makes people avoid getting the help they need, making them suffer in silence. The objective of the research was to define several game design principles that suggests what a developer should focus on when making an empathy game about OCD with the purpose to inform the general public. This was done by analyzing several scientific articles discussing either OCD or empathy games, and concluding the most important parts from them into game design principles. Four game design principles were found; target audience, reality, clarity, and includation. These have not been tested in a practical setting, but can possibly serve as guidelines when making an empathy game focusing on OCD.