Research

I have enjoyed doing the research and publishing the following research analysis and literature review with Dr. Christine Reyna.

Dr. Reyna is a Professor of Psychology, Psychological Science and Community Psychology at DePaul University. You can read up more about her and her work on her ​​​Website:​​ blogs.depaul.edu/creyna or dwell deeper into the research in her Lab: Social and Intergroup Perceptions (SIP) Lab: siplabdepaul.com

Short Papers

Short Paper 1: Structure and Environment

Prompt: What kind of an environment is created in the online gaming world that enables the creation and dissemination of stereotypes and prejudices among teenagers? What are the effects of anonymity? Of physical isolation? Of creating alternate online identities? How might these contribute to the perpetuation of stereotypes and prejudice?

Short Paper 2: Online “Isms”

Prompt: The “isms” in online gaming (e.g., racism, sexism, ageism, ableism)– What role might representation (or lack thereof) have in creating unwelcoming or even hostile environments for women/girls, minoritized, and marginalized people? How is representation in the games themselves a factor in perpetuating stereotypes and prejudice? What are some of the interpersonal dynamics that reinforce these negative intergroup attitudes?

Short Paper 3: Social Psychology

Prompt: What are some of the social psychological factors at play in online gaming that can breed stereotypes and prejudice? What are the psychological effects of being in an online group, and what group processes might be at play (e.g., conformity, identity)? What are the psychological and emotional effects of virtual aggression in the games? In verbal aggression between players? How might they perpetuate stereotypes