Makassar- A study published in 2026 by Dito Anurogo from Universitas Muhammadiyah Makassar introduces a new framework that connects game design with neuroscience and behavioral science to support mental health therapy. The research, published in the East Asian Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, explains how gamification—using game elements in non-game contexts—can become a structured therapeutic approach when grounded in scientific theory rather than simple reward systems.
The study presents a conceptual model called the “Game of Being” framework, which integrates insights from neuroscience, psychology, and behavioral science. The framework shows how game mechanics such as feedback, challenges, and narrative roles can support learning, emotional regulation, and long-term behavior change. According to the author, gamification should not simply make digital platforms more engaging; it should be designed to support wellbeing, personal growth, and clinical outcomes.
The research matters as digital health tools continue to expand worldwide. Mobile apps, online therapy platforms, and educational technologies increasingly use game-like systems to motivate users. However, many of these systems rely on superficial rewards such as points, badges, or leaderboards. The study highlights the need for scientifically grounded design so that gamified technologies truly support mental health and wellbeing.
Digital Health and the Rise of Gamified Interventions
Gamification has become common across digital platforms, including learning systems, productivity tools, and health applications. In healthcare, gamified systems are often used to encourage patients to follow treatment plans, maintain healthy habits, or practice therapeutic exercises.
Despite the growing popularity of these tools, research findings have been inconsistent. Some studies report positive outcomes in learning, health behavior, and psychological wellbeing, while others find limited impact. This inconsistency is often linked to design issues. Many gamified systems focus on increasing engagement rather than supporting meaningful behavioral change.
The research by Dito Anurogo from Universitas Muhammadiyah Makassar addresses this gap by connecting gamification design with established scientific theories of learning, motivation, and emotional wellbeing. The proposed framework integrates insights from neuroscience, psychology, and behavioral change research to explain how game-based systems can support therapeutic outcomes.
Research Approach and Evidence Sources
The study uses a narrative literature review that synthesizes evidence from multiple scientific fields. The analysis includes peer-reviewed studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials, and widely cited theoretical models related to gamification and digital therapeutics.
The literature examined in the review covers several key areas: neuroscience research on reward-based learning, behavioral change frameworks such as the COM-B model and Behaviour Change Wheel, psychological theories including Self-Determination Theory, and studies exploring the connection between wellbeing and physical health.
Rather than analyzing a single dataset, the study integrates findings from many previously published studies to develop a conceptual framework that explains how gamified systems can influence motivation, learning processes, and health outcomes.
Key Findings: Gamification Works Best When Grounded in Science
The study identifies several important patterns across existing research on gamification and digital therapeutics.
First, gamification can influence learning and motivation through neurological processes linked to reward-based learning. Feedback systems, achievable challenges, and visible progress cues can activate learning signals in the brain that strengthen skill development and habit formation.
Second, motivation improves when gamified systems support psychological needs such as autonomy, competence, and social connection. These principles are derived from Self-Determination Theory, a widely used framework in behavioral science.
Third, gamification becomes more effective when it is linked to structured behavior-change strategies. Models such as the COM-B framework help designers identify barriers to behavior change and select appropriate intervention techniques.
Across many studies, the overall effect of gamification in education and health applications tends to be small to moderate but meaningful, especially when the system is carefully aligned with behavioral science principles.
Evidence is particularly strong in mental health interventions where digital games incorporate established therapeutic methods. For example, earlier clinical research cited in the study shows that SPARX, a computer-based game based on cognitive behavioral therapy, can help adolescents manage symptoms of depression with results comparable to traditional therapy approaches.
Other digital interventions designed for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder have also shown promising outcomes, demonstrating that game-based systems can reduce symptom severity when grounded in clinical principles.
The “Game of Being” Framework
The central contribution of the study is the Game of Being framework, which proposes a layered model for therapeutic gamification.
The first layer focuses on neurocognitive mechanisms. Game features such as immediate feedback and calibrated difficulty stimulate learning processes in the brain and help maintain attention.
The second layer focuses on behavioral change mechanisms. Game elements are connected to specific psychological strategies such as goal setting, self-monitoring, and social support.
The third layer emphasizes wellbeing and meaning-making. Gamified systems should not only change behavior but also promote emotional resilience, self-understanding, and positive psychological development.
The fourth layer introduces ethical considerations. The framework emphasizes transparency, user autonomy, and privacy protection in the design of digital health technologies.
According to Dito Anurogo from Universitas Muhammadiyah Makassar, therapeutic gamification should help individuals build capabilities rather than simply compete for points. The study explains that game mechanics should serve as tools for learning, emotional regulation, and meaningful personal development.
Implications for Digital Health and Technology Design
The findings have significant implications for the growing digital health industry. Gamified applications are already used in areas such as mental health support, fitness tracking, rehabilitation programs, and educational platforms.
The study suggests that developers and health professionals should design gamified interventions with a stronger theoretical foundation. When game systems are connected to behavioral science frameworks, they are more likely to produce lasting improvements in health behaviors and psychological wellbeing.
The framework may also guide policymakers and healthcare organizations seeking scalable mental health solutions. Digital interventions that combine engaging game design with evidence-based therapeutic methods could expand access to mental health support, especially among younger populations who are comfortable with digital technology.
At the same time, the research emphasizes the importance of ethical design. Gamified systems should avoid manipulative reward structures that encourage excessive screen use or exploit psychological vulnerabilities. Instead, digital health tools should prioritize user wellbeing, transparency, and responsible data practices.
Author Profile
Dito Anurogo from Universitas Muhammadiyah Makassar.
Source
Anurogo, Dito. “The Game of Being Framework: A Mechanism- and Theory-Informed Approach to Therapeutic Gamification.” East Asian Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, 2026.
Journal website: https://journaleajmr.my.id/index.php/eajmr
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