Overview

Gaming Disorder and problematic gaming are growing concerns among children, adolescents, and young adults. In milder presentations, problematic gaming may contribute to relational conflict, compromised opportunities, and minor physical health concerns. In more severe cases, however, Gaming Disorder can be profoundly debilitating, significantly impairing psychological, social, educational, and occupational functioning.

As research efforts continue to advance our understanding of Gaming Disorder, a new and critical frontier has emerged: how can these research developments be translated into practical, effective, and clinically meaningful interventions for individuals and families affected by problematic gaming? This question has been the central focus over the past several years.

In this workshop, Dr Elwin Hu will build upon the introductory webinar “An Introduction to the Assessment of Gaming Disorder” by offering a deeper exploration of theoretical models used to understand Gaming Disorder and how these inform comprehensive assessment and case formulation. The workshop will then transition to evidence-informed intervention strategies, including both treatment and prevention approaches, at the individual level as well as the parent/guardian level.

Note: Completion of the introductory webinar is not a prerequisite for attending this workshop.

The key themes for this workshop are:

1) Assessment of Gaming Disorder

2) Theoretical models and psychological mechanisms underlying Gaming Disorder

3) Targeted intervention and prevention strategies for Gaming Disorder

Learning Outcomes

By the completion of this workshop, participants will gain the knowledge and clinical insights required to:

1. Differentiate levels of gaming severity, including healthy gaming, problematic gaming, and Gaming Disorder, using clinical interviewing and standardised assessment tools
2. Develop a theoretical understanding of the psychological underpinnings and maintaining mechanisms of Gaming Disorder
3. Begin working effectively with individuals and/or their parents or guardians to prevent escalation of gaming-related difficulties and improve their relationship with gaming

Presenter(s)

Dr. Elwin Hu

About the presenter(s)

Elwin is a Clinical Psychologist with extensive expertise in the intersection of mental health and gaming. Since 2015, he has been actively involved in promoting healthy gaming behaviours by delivering workshops to schools and parents to raise awareness and advocate for responsible gaming behaviours. Elwin holds a doctorate in psychology, with his doctoral research focussing on Gaming Disorder and the psychological mechanisms underlying it. His work delves into critical aspects such as the User-Avatar Bond and other gaming mechanics that contribute to problematic gaming behaviours. In his private practice, Elwin employs an integrative therapeutic approach, combining evidence-based cognitive behavioural strategies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Intensive Short-Term Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). He is dedicated to helping clients, including those impacted by Gaming Disorder, achieve their highest potential. Elwin is committed to education and community engagement. He continues to share his expertise through psychoeducational workshops for parents, schools, and professionals, bridging the gap between psychological research and practical application. He currently lectures and provides research supervision at the Cairnmillar Institute.

Notes

Target Audience

This event is aimed at Beginner level. The event is designed for health professionals with limited prior exposure to, or experience with, the intersection between gaming and psychology.

Duration of Access

This event will not be recorded.

Please note:

• This is a Member Groups event. All communication will be sent to the registrants’ registered email address. This includes event reminders with details (such as the zoom link) and any pre-event or post-event resources, if provided by the facilitators. 
• A post-event email will be sent within two weeks of the event’s completion to each registrant’s registered email address. This email will include the CPD certificate, and any additional resources shared during the session.

CPD

It is up to attendees to assess and determine how learning from this event aligns with the requirements of their learning plan. The providers accordingly do not make any representation that the event counts towards attendees’ CPD learning requirements. If an attendee determines themselves that the learning they complete aligns to their learning plan, then they can decide to count those hours towards their CPD requirements for the registration cycle.

The information in this presentation has been prepared in good faith and for educational purposes only. Therefore, the information is general in nature and should not be relied upon in the treatment of any condition and you should seek your own independent professional and/or legal advice concerning any specific issue. The APS accepts no responsibility for any errors, omissions or decisions relating to the information. The content should not be reproduced without permission or unless permitted by law.

If you are experiencing registration difficulties please contact APS Events Support.