I Think You're Hysterical! : A Practice-Based Research Through Experimental Design Using Discomfort as a Method for Reflection

Sammanfattning

This thesis explores how discomfort can be used as a mechanic to create a space for critical reflection around the theme of hysteria and its current legacy. The central research question asks: How can using discomfort as a gamified mechanic create a space for critical reflection on hysteria and its enduring legacy in medical discrimination? Drawing from Feminist Epistemology, Reflective and Abusive game design theories, this project centers around a custom-built simulation device that uses a TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) unit to deliver haptic feedback to players’ bodies based on their interactions with the system. These moments of disruption in immersion shift players’ focus to their bodies as a site of knowledge. By challenging the dominant player-centric game design principles, this project argues that discomfort can be used as a valuable tool in creating embodied understanding and critical engagement. The simulation highlights the aesthetic nature of hysteria by encouraging players to perform illness in the same way hysterical patients were forced to do. This thesis contributes to the ongoing discussion on critical design and game studies by showing intentional use of discomfort as a method for design can help provoke thoughts, challenge the norms, and create space for reflection.