Rosalind and Ashly Burch used these survey results during a presentation at the Game Developers Conference on March 19th. They spoke on the connection between gaming and social hierarchies among middle and high school boys. Rosalind analyzed group dynamics, the different roles that are embodied in those groups, and how these roles manifest when they play games. Rosalind and Ashly also discussed how the games young people choose to play have an effect, not only on their social status amongst their peers but their social competence in moments of conflict. The presenters saw this seminar as the beginning of a critical conversation that brings new insights into the social dynamics of gaming as it pertains to the development of social competency and “ethical/moral” courage in moments of conflict. One outcome we hope for is creating a new strategy for constructive and engaged discussion to address issues of aggression, racism, sexism and homophobia within games.
Here are a few articles highlighting the talk:
XO Jane: “Are Video Games About War Hurting The Emotional Development Of Boys And Men? (Maybe They Don’t Have To)”
Game Industry International: “Gaming’s social liabilities and broken role models”
The Escapist Magazine: “Better Game Heroes Can Actually Save Real Lives”
