Women’s Experiences With Harassment in Online Video Games: Rumination, Organizational Responsiveness, Withdrawal, and Coping Strategies

• In Event: Top Four Competitive Papers in Game Studies

Abstract

We conducted an online survey to assess women’s (N = 293) experiences with general harassment and sexual harassment in online video games, including the frequency of harassment; rumination about the harassment; perceptions of organizational responsiveness (i.e., what efforts the gaming company made to address harassment); and withdrawal from the game. Women also reported coping strategies they employed to mitigate harassment, including gender bending or gender neutralization through screen name or avatar choice; avoiding communication with other players; and seeking social support inside and outside the game. Findings indicate that both general and sexual harassment predict women’s withdrawal from online games. Sexual harassment, but not general harassment, leads to rumination and subsequent withdrawal. The path from sexual harassment to withdrawal was also mediated by organizational responsiveness, indicating the gaming industry plays a key role in whether women are alienated or continue to participate in games after harassment occurs.

Authors

• Jesse Fox, Ohio State U

• Wai Yen Tang, Ohio State U