Citation

Tanes Z. Behav. Inform. Technol. 2017; 36(10): 1037-1045.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/0144929X.2017.1334089

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Playing serious games may allow individuals to acquire essential disaster preparedness knowledge and skills. Playing such games repeatedly could generate self-efficacy, and consequently lead to behavioural intentions to take precautions. This study examines the effects of repetitive-play of an earthquake preparedness game on behavioural intentions, and the role of self-efficacy in mediating these positive outcomes. An experimental study was conducted, where repetitive-play was manipulated in a laboratory setting. An online self-administered survey was used to measure self-efficacy and behavioural intentions.

RESULTS showed that those in the repetitive-play condition had significant intentions to take precautions compared only to those in the no-play condition. The gradual increase in intentions from no-play to single-play to repetitive-play was not significant. Earthquake preparedness self-efficacy mediated the relationship between repetitive-play and behavioural intentions.

RESULTS of this study suggest that serious games should encourage repetitive-play while allowing players to progressively gain content self-efficacy, highlighting the important role of design and game features in serious games on risk communication.

Language: en