Accepted for/Published in: Journal of Medical Internet Research
Date Submitted: May 15, 2023
Open Peer Review Period: May 15, 2023 - Jul 10, 2023
Date Accepted: Sep 30, 2023
(closed for review but you can still tweet)
Influence of Pokémon GO on Physical Activity and Psychosocial Well-being in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review
ABSTRACT
Background:
Pokémon GO, an augmented reality game with widespread popularity, can potentially influence players’ physical activity (PA) levels and psychosocial well-being.
Objective:
This review aims to systematically examine the scientific evidence regarding the impact of Pokémon GO on PA and psychosocial well-being in children and adolescents.
Methods:
Utilizing the PRISMA guidelines and the GRADE framework, we conducted keyword and reference searches in PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Scopus databases. We performed title/abstract screening, full-text review, evidence synthesis, and identified research gaps.
Results:
Our review included ten studies that explored the effect of Pokémon GO on PA or psychosocial well-being among children and adolescents. These studies employed diverse designs across multiple countries and regions. Pokémon GO usage measures encompassed frequency, experience, adherence, and motivation. PA assessment methods ranged from self-reported questionnaires to technology-based evaluations and qualitative approaches. Psychosocial well-being measures included emotional intelligence, personal well-being, self-control, emotionality, and sociability. Generally, the estimated impact of Pokémon GO on PA was positive, with gaming elements and engagement correlating with increased PA levels. However, the effect on psychosocial well-being presented mixed results, with positive associations for sociability but a complex relationship involving well-being and internet gaming disorder. The limitations of these studies comprised the absence of randomized controlled trials, heterogeneity in study designs and outcome measures, and potential confounding bias.
Conclusions:
Overall, Pokémon GO tends to positively affect PA levels, while the impact on psychosocial well-being remains complex and requires further investigation. Future research should investigate the mechanisms connecting Pokémon GO use with PA and psychosocial well-being and the potential risks of excessive gameplay. These findings can help inform public health interventions to harness gaming technologies for promoting PA and enhancing well-being among the younger generation. Clinical Trial: The systematic review was registered in PROSPERO (No. CRD42023412032).
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