Exploring the Potential of the Web-based Virtual World of Second Life to Improve Substance Abuse Treatment Outcomes

Publication Date:

Publisher: Network for the Improvement of Addiction Treatment, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Author(s): David. Gustafson; Bret. Shaw; Andrew. Isham; Dick. Dillon; James. Spartz

Research Area: Health

Type: Report

Abstract:

Web-based virtual worlds such as Second Life hold promise for use in addiction treatment and recovery. As a “built environment” with almost 14 million registered users, Second Life offers opportunities for social connection that researchers and practitioners may build upon for use in substance abuse treatment.
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In May 2008, leaders in addiction treatment and recovery met to discuss Second Life and brainstorm ideas for how to use it in their work.
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Key Findings:
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* Meeting participants mentioned the ability to provide direct-care service to individuals unable to go to treatment centers and staff training as potential ways to use Second Life.
* Along with highlighting current programs using Second Life, participants positively evaluated the idea of a Recovery Island that would be a unique island within Second Life that promoted addiction recovery for a diverse audience.
* Meeting participants detailed barriers to using Second Life that existed in technical, social, ethical/legal, and financial domains. Examples of barriers included licensing and confidentiality as ethical barriers for practitioners and access to Second Life as a technical barrier for patients/clients.
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A virtual reality based system such as Second Life is a promising and innovative strategy for promoting substance abuse treatment outcomes.