Dr. Bill Hansen Awarded SBIR Grant to Develop Online Game for Youth Substance Use Prevention
Senior Research Scientist Bill Hansen, PhD received an SBIR grant to develop and test an online game, Classmates, aimed to prevent alcohol use and misuse as well as use of other drugs and engagement in antisocial activities among 13-15 year olds. Based on a research-backed future orientation and normative education approach, Classmates is designed to engage players in an experience that simulates the process of finding new friends and engaging in activities that either support or detract from pursuing one’s life’s goal and desired future. The Classmates prototype will be built in partnership with Filament Games and High Point University’s game design program, with the input of a focus group of adolescents.