Design Capstone Project 2
- Lillian Ni
- Aug 21, 2023
- 2 min read
In an era dominated by technological innovation, it's only fitting that we turn to these very advancements to address the pressing challenges of mental health. As someone who has encountered the shadows of depression and lived through the struggles of seeking help, I am deeply committed to exploring how technology can extend a hand to those in need. In this blog post, I'll dive into the heart of my project, sharing how I intend to employ virtual characters as a transformative tool to empower Asian teenagers battling depression.
The Power of Virtual Characters:
When depression clouds our skies, reaching out to a real person can sometimes feel like an overwhelming burden. The fear of burdening others with our negative emotions often compels us to retreat into isolation. This is where the concept of virtual characters comes in. Imagine having a non-judgmental companion who is always available to listen, support, and guide, without the apprehension of affecting them negatively. Virtual characters hold immense promise in bridging this gap, offering a comforting presence and an outlet for teenagers to express their feelings without fear.
Personalized Support:
Depression is a complex journey, unique to each individual. Recognizing this, I envision creating virtual characters that can be personalized to resonate with users on a deeply personal level. Users could tailor the appearance, personality traits, and even the communication style of their virtual companion, making the interaction feel remarkably authentic and relatable. This personalization ensures that each user finds a friend in their virtual character who understands them, fostering a sense of belonging and emotional support.
Overcoming Cultural Stigmas:
Cultural attitudes towards mental health can cast a long shadow over seeking help, especially in East Asian households. The stigma attached to mental health issues often makes individuals, particularly teenagers, hesitant to open up to family members or friends. The concept of "losing face" and concerns about burdening loved ones can keep those in need from seeking assistance. By introducing a virtual character as an intermediary, we create a bridge between the real world and the world of emotions, allowing teenagers to communicate their struggles without the fear of judgment or backlash.
Creating a Safe Space:
The virtual character serves as a safe haven for these teenagers. A space where they can share their feelings openly, vent their frustrations, and even receive coping strategies. This interactive companion can engage in conversations, guide users through mindfulness exercises, and provide resources for seeking professional help when necessary. The absence of real-world repercussions grants a sense of freedom in expressing one's thoughts, ultimately fostering a healthier emotional outlet.
ChatGPT4 has been used to format my words.
Refrences:
Leong, F. T., Okazaki, S., & Tak, J. (2003). Assessment of depression and anxiety in East Asia. Psychological Assessment, 15(3), 290.
Hamamura, T., & Laird, P. G. (2014). The effect of perfectionism and acculturative stress on levels of depression experienced by East Asian international students. Journal of Multicultural Counseling and Development, 42(4), 205-217.
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