Virtual Community: Online Gaming and Mental Health

Authors: Min Saleem, MaryBeth Apriceno, Ph.D.

SUNY Campus: Farmingdale State College

Presentation Type: Poster

Location: UU 108

Presentation #: 89

Timeslot: Session C 1:45-2:45 PM

Abstract: Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a rise in playing video games, especially online. According to the Global Web Index, in 2021, 70% of youths aged 8 through 18 reported playing video games “most, if not every day”. The majority of gaming-related research to date has focused on the negative effects of gaming such as gaming addiction and social isolation. Sense of belonging and community have been shown to have a number of positive effects on social and psychological well being, as well as increasing the likelihood of goal attainment. The impact of having a community where one feels comfortable and accepted may be even greater in teens and young adults, when one’s identity is still forming and self-esteem can be particularly fragile. This study examined sense of belonging in online gaming communities as a protective factor against depression among gamers. One hundred-eight online gamers responded to a 30-minute survey posted to online gaming hubs, such as Reddit and Facebook. ANOVA revealed those who play multiplayer games reported less depression compared to those who only play solo games. Linear regression revealed having online gaming friends and higher sense of belonging in gaming communities predicted less depression among gamers. Results from this exploratory study are consistent with the small body of literature examining positive aspects of online gaming. Our findings suggest that while online gamers may have higher baseline rates of anxiety and depression, online gaming communities may provide companionship and sense of belonging, reducing depressive symptoms.