Women in online gaming communities : analysing gender dynamics and social structures

Abstract

Online video games have gained popularity during the last two decades. Despite the long-held belief that video games are primarily a pastime activity for men and boys, several studies show that almost half of all gamers in the world today are female. Though many people, regardless of their gender, experience toxic behaviours and harassment in different online gaming communities, women often face discrimination solely on their gender. This research investigates the experiences of harassment and toxicity in online gaming communities, as well as gender dynamics and stereotypes. An online survey was used to collect responses related to experiences of online gaming communities, focusing on communication between genders and stereotypes and their correlation. The survey's data was examined utilising both qualitative and quantitative methods.

Analysing the survey data, the study investigates two main questions: how harassment experiences differ between genders, and how stereotypes affect gender dynamics and communication. The findings show notable differences, with women reporting more incidents of verbal abuse, sexual harassment, and discrimination based on gender. Men have fewer unpleasant experiences and believe that gaming communities are more accepting of women. Stereotypes continue to exist, such as presumptions on the skills and objectives of female gamers, which result in both condescending behaviour and more critical observation.

These results draw attention to the patriarchal foundations of gaming environments, which marginalise women and reinforce male dominance. The study emphasises how the gaming industry needs to implement more successful diversity and inclusion programs in order to build fairer and encouraging communities. Future studies and useful initiatives aiming at promoting gender equality in digital gaming contexts can build on the empirical data presented.