Mightier is a biofeedback-based program designed to help children develop emotional regulation and coping skills through engaging video games. Developed by a team of clinicians, researchers, and game developers at Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Mightier targets children who struggle with emotional regulation, anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and other emotional or behavioral challenges.
The Mightier program uses a heart rate monitor worn by the child while they play specially designed video games on a tablet or smartphone. The games are designed to become more challenging as the child's heart rate increases, encouraging them to practice calming techniques in real-time to bring their heart rate down and progress in the game.
The main components of the Mightier program include:
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Biofeedback: The heart rate monitor provides real-time feedback on the child's emotional state, allowing them to see the direct impact of their emotions on gameplay and learn how to regulate their emotions to succeed in the game.
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Skill-Building Games: The video games are designed to be fun and engaging while teaching valuable emotional regulation skills, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and visualization techniques.
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Parent Support: The Mightier program includes resources for parents, such as progress reports, coaching support, and access to a private online community to share experiences and learn from other parents.
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Professional Guidance: The Mightier program offers optional support from a licensed clinician who can provide personalized guidance, help set goals, and answer questions about the program.
By practicing emotional regulation skills in a fun and engaging context, children using the Mightier program can learn to apply these techniques in real-life situations, leading to improvements in emotional control, resilience, and overall well-being.