THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF ROLE-PLAYING GAMES (RPGS) TO PSYCHOTHERAPY IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF SOCIAL SKILLS

Abstract

Role-playing games (RPGs) are interactive narrative experiences in which participants assume fictional characters and collaboratively construct storylines, creating an immersive environment that fosters emotional expression and development. Analytic-behavioral therapy, grounded in the functional analysis of behavior and the use of positive reinforcement strategies, seeks to promote meaningful behavioral change. From this perspective, the present study aims to examine the potential of RPGs for enhancing social skills. This narrative review included articles published in the last six years and indexed in Google Scholar and the Virtual Health Library (VHL/BVS). Studies that addressed RPGs as a primary resource in psychotherapeutic interventions were selected. The findings indicate that, although still limited, existing research demonstrates the effectiveness of RPGs in strengthening social repertoires, improving empathy, supporting emotional regulation, and reducing maladaptive behaviors. These outcomes emerge within a symbolic and safe environment, enabling learning without direct exposure to aversive contingencies. Overall, RPGs show considerable potential as complementary tools in psychotherapeutic interventions, particularly by providing symbolic experiences that promote emotional development and behavioral modulation.

Keywords: role-playing; psychotherapy; social skills; behavioral therapy.