The Rise of E-Therapy? Young Indian Men's Experience of Playing SPARX: A Mixed-Methods Approach

Young Men of Indian Descent (YMID) encounter significant challenges in the realm of mental health, stemming from the interplay of cultural beliefs and societal expectations of masculinity. Because of a pervasive reluctance among YMID to seek mental health support, this population remains underexplored. The present study aims to address this by delving into the contextual experiences of YMID in using SPARX, an E-therapy game, as a tool for help-seeking. A convergent mixed-methods approach was employed to observe the use of SPARX among a sample of 8 YMID (aged between 21-24 years) in New Zealand. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected simultaneously yet analysed separately. Quantitative results were analysed using descriptive statistics, whilst qualitative findings were analysed using thematic analysis. Results from both datasets were compared and contrasted, then integrated for an interpretive discussion. Three key insights that emerged were: (1) SPARX establishes a supportive and safe environment for YMID, (2) SPARX fosters empowerment for YMID, and (3) YMID have diverse needs and preferences to receive help from SPARX. The findings align well with existing literature and offer a nuanced perspective into the complex interplay between societal norms, cultural influences and personal factors towards seeking mental health support for a sample of YMID. The research contributes valuable insights into the role of SPARX in supporting and recognising the unique needs and preferences of YMID, which has not been addressed. It also contributes to a broader discourse on how future mental health interventions can better support and address the barriers within this diverse and vulnerable community.