THE SCHOOL OF INDUSTRIAL DESIGN
GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
Under the provisions of the regulations for the degree
MASTER OF INDUSTRIAL DESIGN
Monday, December 2, 2024
12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. EST
West Architecture -Room 250
Online Link:
Yuchuan Yu
will present a thesis defense entitled,
"Coping Through Play: Designing Gamified Educational Experiences to Support Young Adults' Mental Well-Being And Life Transitions"
Advisor:
Dr. Eunsook Kwon, Georgia Tech School of Industrial Design
Committee:
Dr. Leandro Miletto Tonetto, Georgia Tech School of Industrial Design
Dr. Leila Aflatoony, Georgia Tech School of Industrial Design
Faculty and students are invited to attend this presentation.
Abstract
Being a young adult involves navigating significant life transitions such as graduation, unemployment, relocating, dealing with relationships and becoming financially independent. This period is both unique and challenging. In the U.S., young adults report rates of anxiety and depression at 36%, which is twice that of teens and significantly higher than other age groups. During this time, it is common to experience feelings of lack of purpose and other mental challenges. If these challenges are not addressed effectively, they can lead to emotional, cognitive, and behavioral crises. This presents an opportunity to explore educational interventions and preventive measures for this critical issue. This study investigates how young adults' personal traits, experiences, and external stressors collectively impact their mental well-being during major life transitions. Through a user-centered research approach, this study proposes an innovative educational card game designed to teach coping strategies, foster communication, and encourage self-reflection among young adults. The game experience combines relatable narratives, engaging game mechanics, and balanced educational elements to provide both an enjoyable and meaningful learning opportunity.