Don't Get Crazy: Mental Health Depictions in Video Games

 

The subject of mental health stigmatization has become an increasingly hot topic. Popular media’s portrayal of individuals with mental disorders continues to be scrutinized, as research-based character depictions are few and far between. According to Shapiro and Rotter (2016), 10% of films each year display some type of mental illness, and those portrayals are more often than not criminal and violent.

In fact, researchers have created six categories to describe the most common stereotypical depictions of characters with mental disorders in the media (Hyler, Gabbard, & Schneider, 1991, as cited by Shapiro & Rotter, 2016). These groupings are:

• ·         The rebellious free spirit

• ·         The homicidal maniac

• ·         The female patient as seductress

• ·        The enlightened member of society

• ·         The narcissistic parasite

• ·         The zoo specimen

In an effort to analyze how video games, specifically, portray mental illnesses, Shapiro and Rotter compiled a list of the 50 top selling games from 2011 to 2013. After removing duplicate game titles, researchers were left with 96 games. The goal was to determine whether these games featured characters with mental disorders, as well as whether these characters fit into the six categories used to describe depictions in other media formats. 

Depictions of Mental Illness in Video Games

After using specific Internet search terms and YouTube videos to analyze the 96 video game titles researchers compiled, results showed that 23 out of 96 games, or approximately 24%, depicted at least one character with a mental illness. While not all the characters reviewed fit within the six categories used for other mediums, 85 of the games’ characters fit one of the six groupings. 

What are We Afraid of? 

The unknown is one of the scariest things a human being can face. The most frightening aspects of the human condition are the dark depths of our minds. Perhaps that is why game developers often rely on the mental illness trope when developing villains. While I don’t necessarily believe that depictions of characters with mental disorders should be shied away from, I do believe that a stronger sense of accuracy needs to be promoted. If a game developer decides that they want their criminal to be a psychopath, they need to research what psychopathy details and portray a character that is diagnostically accurate. 

However, video game developers, as well as those who work in other mediums, have a unique opportunity to promote awareness regarding mental illnesses. Proper character development and in-game interactions can create opportunities for gamers to learn the truth about different diagnoses and build empathy. A collaborative relationship between mental health practitioners and artists working in popular media has the possibility to diminish stigmatization and stereotyping, as well as promoting a deeper understanding for all.