Merrick, A., Miller, D., and Krause, A.E. (2025) A Qualitative Exploration of Using Tabletop Gaming to Promote Wellness in Australia. In: [Presented at the 2025 TropiQ Townsville Research Symposium]. From: 2025 TropiQ Townsville Research Symposium, 28 October 2025, Townsville, QLD, Australia.

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Abstract

Background: While prior research suggests that playing tabletop role-playing games (TTRPG) can improve social functioning and bolster wellbeing, limited attention has been given to how and why Australian practitioners employ TTRPGs therapeutically. The present research asks, How are TTRPGs currently used for wellness promotion in Australia? Method: Our qualitative study used semi-structured interviews undertaken with Australians who had previously acted as a Game Master (defined as someone who facilitates TTRPGs) in a wellness promotion context. We interviewed 16 practitioners with healthcare (n = 9), community organisation (n = 5), and education (n = 2) backgrounds. Results: Thematic analysis resulted in four core themes: intervention, practitioner, client, and wellness outcomes. Practitioners were often self-taught, and predominantly used Dungeons & Dragons or Critical Core, engaging with a wide range of clients. They valued TTRPGs because they are inexpensive, easily adapted for different themes, and have clear rules. Reported wellness benefits included enhanced social and life skills (such as an improved understanding of others, frustration tolerance, and patience building), increased feelings of enjoyment and play immersion, and development of important self-concepts such as self-determination. Furthermore, Practitioners reported that, through TTRPGs, clients can process traumas and reframe negative experiences. Finally, participants spoke of how third parties noticed client improvements, such as positive changes in behaviours, which indicates visible improvement. Conclusions: With appropriate training, TTRPGs' versatility in supporting client-centred, narrative-based interventions offer practitioners a meaningful way to tailor to specific client needs and therapeutic goals.

Item ID:	89600
Item Type:	Conference Item (Abstract / Summary)
Keywords:	well-being, wellness, TTRPG, role-playing games, dungeons and dragons, DND, D&D, health, longitudinal, RCT
Date Deposited:	18 Nov 2025 00:15
FoR Codes:	52 PSYCHOLOGY > 5203 Clinical and health psychology > 520304 Health psychology @ 100%
SEO Codes:	28 EXPANDING KNOWLEDGE > 2801 Expanding knowledge > 280121 Expanding knowledge in psychology @ 100%
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