Toxicity in online multiplayer games
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Prevalence and Types of Toxicity in Online Multiplayer Games
Toxic behavior is a widespread issue in online multiplayer games, with studies showing that a significant majority of players—up to 66% in some samples—have experienced toxic incidents such as verbal aggression, harassment, sabotaging, and griefing within the past year 257. Toxicity can take many forms, including insults, hostile communication, and actions that disrupt gameplay for others, negatively impacting both individual and team performance and reducing overall enjoyment 57.
Risk Factors and Drivers of Toxic Behavior
Several factors contribute to the prevalence of toxic behavior in online games. Intense engagement in competitive games, especially genres like multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) and shooter games, increases the likelihood of both witnessing and perpetrating toxic acts 12. Witnessing toxic behavior can also make players more likely to engage in similar actions themselves, creating a cycle of retaliation and escalation 14. Personality traits, such as low self-efficacy and high online disinhibition, further increase susceptibility to both perpetrating and experiencing toxicity 1910.
Demographic and cultural variables also play a role. Younger players and those from certain cultural backgrounds report higher levels of toxic behavior, and there are notable differences in how education relates to toxicity across regions 28. While the gaming environment is predominantly male, toxicity is recognized as a problem across all genders, sometimes leading to discrimination and demotivation among underrepresented groups 78.
Psychological and Social Consequences
Victims of toxic behavior often experience negative psychological outcomes, including increased symptoms of depression, anxiety, and problematic gaming habits . Those who both perpetrate and are victimized by toxicity tend to report higher levels of anger and rumination 24. The subjective experience of toxicity varies, but its cascading effects can create a hostile environment that perpetuates further negative behavior .
Mechanisms Facilitating Toxicity
The online gaming environment itself can facilitate toxic behavior through mechanisms described by the Online Disinhibition Effect. Features such as anonymity, asynchronicity, and a lack of immediate authority reduce social accountability, making it easier for players to act out in ways they might not in face-to-face interactions 610. These factors, combined with in-game frustration and stress, can trigger toxic responses .
Detection and Mitigation Strategies
Efforts to detect and mitigate toxicity include the use of natural language processing to identify and classify toxic remarks in chat logs, as well as the development of game design principles aimed at reducing negative behaviors 36. Transparency, immediate feedback, and the cultivation of prosocial group norms are underutilized but promising strategies for buffering toxic behavior and improving the safety and inclusivity of gaming communities 56.
Conclusion
Toxicity in online multiplayer games is a complex, multifaceted problem influenced by individual, social, and environmental factors. Its prevalence and impact on player well-being highlight the need for continued research and the implementation of effective prevention and intervention strategies. Addressing toxicity requires a holistic approach, including better game design, community management, and player education to foster healthier online gaming environments 12456910.
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