Florida: Virtual Game for Latinas Targets Real-World Issues

A University of Central Florida (UCF) social psychologist and nurse leads a team that is developing a virtual reality-based program using avatars to discourage young Latinas from engaging in risky sexual behaviors.

Unlike most abstinence programs, the team's computer simulation game does not feature adult-to-teen discussions on how to say no to sex. Instead, avatars reinforce players' self-esteem and help guide them through a maze of relationships.

Anne Norris came up with the idea after witnessing avatars used for teacher training at the university, thinking it could be a new way to reach teenagers. "This would be great for working with kids and giving them a chance to practice all the skills that we know are really important to help them avoid early sexual experiences and unsafe sex," said Norris.

In July, the project received a $434,800 grant from the National Institute of Nursing Research at the National Institutes of Health. The team is hoping to reach Hispanic girls ages 10-14. Data from CDC show Latina teens have the highest birth rate of all groups.

Students from the summer "After-School All-Stars Program" at Stonewall Jackson Middle School in east Orlando have provided feedback on the game, which is still in development.

The project will continue to refine the game over the next two years. The goal is to teach without preaching. "I believe in the power of play," said Jeff Wirth, director of the UCF Interactive Performance Lab. "That is how we learn as human beings, and this kind of experience allows someone to play, which is fun, and as a result to learn without feeling pressured."

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