Sexism in video games is one of the growing problems facing gamers across the globe. Game playing is supposed to be fun. However, nowadays, some gamers encounter harassment and discrimination as they play video games. This problem seems to be increasing lately since the number of online games players has grown tremendously.
What’s more, some gamers have reported that they had been discriminated against either during the game playing process or during the process of live-streaming the gaming sessions. In other words, even though playing video games is fun, sometimes one ends up having an unpleasant time. Therefore, knowledge about Sexism in Video Games is important.
The Reality of Sexism in Video Games
Unfortunately, Sexism in Video Games is an exception. In accordance with the survey results, 79% of players believe that there is such a thing as sexism in the gaming world. What’s more, over 63% of women said that they had ever been harassed.
One can encounter harassment in different ways. First of all, threats, verbal abuse, or any other behavior may have a negative effect on one’s psychological state. Many girls get trolled and harassed during their gameplay. This is one of the reasons why video games turn into something unpleasant and stressful.
Common Forms of Sexism in Video Games
- Sexist and insulting comments
- Threats of violence or harm
- Doxing (sharing personal information online)
- Cyberstalking and repeated harassment
Real Experience Stories in the Gaming Community
The discussion on Sexism in Video Games gets clearer when we consider some examples. Most of the time, gamers experience a number of disturbing situations while broadcasting on such websites as Twitch. There are a few funny episodes, but most of them bring negative emotions to streamers.
In particular, women gamers are often referred to as “go back into the kitchen”. The given examples reveal prejudice and stereotyping about women. Moreover, Pokimane and Kyedae have made videos about their disturbing experiences with such types of harassment. As a result, players suffer emotional distress, and even quit gaming.
Root Causes of Sexism in Video Games
Causes of Sexism in Video Games are different. First of all, anonymity online gives the possibility to act like that due to the lack of responsibility. The fact is that the internet creates a certain shell around users when they make their comments.
Secondly, most sites cannot respond quickly to offensive behavior. Even though some firms are trying to take actions in order to solve the issue, other companies fail to implement proper restrictions. Therefore, this issue persists.
Impact of Sexism in Video Games
There are multiple consequences for being exposed to such phenomena. Players become stressed and nervous; additionally, they suffer from depression. Playing games does not bring happiness, but only insecurity and loneliness. Another consequence of sexism in the video game world concerns the gaming industry itself. Women avoid joining the gaming world because of all the bad experiences they have. Therefore, women’s presence in the video game industry is minimal.
Industry Response to Sexism in Video Games
There are some instances where game designers have come up with solutions to address the issue of Sexism in Video Games.
An example is Riot Games, which has introduced actions like reporting, muting, and blocking in video games such as Valorant.
Strategies to Reduce Sexism in Video Games
When it comes to Combating Sexism in Video Games, each individual should take some responsibility for what happens. Here are some suggestions for achieving this aim:
- Use the report function within games often
- Mute/ban abusive users immediately
- Participate in supportive gaming communities
- Engage in polite communication
- Speak out against abuse whenever you can without putting yourself at risk
In addition, simply becoming aware is important as well. Speaking up regarding your experiences as a gamer will cause others to become aware of what they’re doing.
Building an Inclusive Gaming Future
Solution for Sexism in Video Games lies in uniting gamers. It starts from being inclusive and respectful towards one another. With more female players joining the gaming community, it is necessary that gamers are respectful and inclusive.
By educating gamers, they will be able to take responsibility for themselves and understand the feelings of others. With gamers being respectful and having empathy towards others, the gaming culture will improve.
Conclusion
Sexism in Video Games still exists despite it not being insurmountable. While harassment messages are common among gamers, changes are taking place due to increasing awareness. The gaming community should be inclusive for all gamers.
This can be achieved through reporting of any negative behaviors, supporting each other, and practicing inclusiveness. It is the responsibility of gamers and the gaming industry to achieve this objective.
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