Quasi-randomized pilot study finds chess improves working memory and psychological well-being in adolescents with mental disorders, suggesting therapeutic potential.
Key Points
This study aims to explore the effectiveness of chess-based cognitive remediation training on executive functions and health-related quality of life in adolescents with mental disorders.
Quasi-experimental study conducted in a child and adolescent psychiatry department
Participants aged 13–17 years were assigned to six-week chess intervention (experimental group) or treatment as usual (control group)
Cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, sustained attention, and working memory assessed alongside health-related quality of life.
Experimental group showed significantly faster reaction times in the working memory task (p = .016, d = 0.79)
Experimental group exhibited greater psychological well-being compared to the control group (p = .035, d = 0.67)
No significant group differences were found for other executive function measures.