Social Learning in Affinity Spaces: Analyzing Discussions of Sexual Violence in the RDR 2 Subreddit

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Friday 3:45pm
  In Poster Session: Social Learning in Affinity Spaces: Analyzing Discussions of Sexual Violence in the RDR 2 Subreddit

Abstract

This study examines how discussions of sexual violence on the Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2) subreddit shape community understanding within a digital affinity space. Using a mixed-method approach, we conducted sentiment analysis with Python and TextBlob (Oct 2022–May 2025) and identified an initial spike in negative sentiment followed by stabilization. A deductive thematic analysis revealed three core themes: Shared Perspectives (e.g., outrage, empathy), Negotiation of Meaning (e.g., critiques, severity debates), and Transformative Potentials (e.g., reflection, real-world connections). These findings suggest that peer discourse fosters collective meaning-making and informal learning. The study highlights the educational potential of online communities and offers implications for future research on social learning and sensitive topic engagement in informal digital spaces.

Authors

• Yue Shi, The University of Hong Kong

• Zhongyu Wang, Florida State University

• Zhichun Liu, University of Hong Kong