Students design video game to help stop abuse

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Middle school students in Rhode Island have helped design a new video game that aims to help stop teen dating violence and promote healthy relationships.

Sojourner House, an advocacy and resource center in Providence for domestic violence victims, premiered ‘‘The Real Robots of Robot High’’ on Monday at Highlander Charter School.

The educational game is set at Robot High, where two of the main characters are in an explosive relationship. Players have to stop the abuse and save the school by using communication skills and positive influence.

The game and accompanying curriculum were developed by Sojourner House in partnership with four middle schools and after-school programs in Providence, Pawtucket and Central Falls; the youth advocacy organization Young Voices; the state education department; and a publisher of ‘‘social impact’’ video games.