Sense of Community, Social Identity and Social Support Among Players of Massively Multiplayer Online Games (MMOGs): A Qualitative Analysis

TLDR

Most research on MMOG social relationships has relied on quantitative methods. This study qualitatively explored Australian World of Warcraft players’ experiences of MMOG-based social relationships. The authors conducted thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with 22 players, uncovering a sense of community, multiple social identities, and social support derived from in-game relationships. Players formed communities, frequently exchanged in-game and broader emotional support, identified primarily as gamers and guild members, and noted that game environment changes affect these relationships, suggesting future work to identify features that enhance positive connections. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Abstract

ABSTRACT The majority of research examining massively multiplayer online game (MMOG)‐based social relationships has used quantitative methodologies. The present study used qualitative semi‐structured interviews with 22 Australian World of Warcraft (WoW) players to examine their experiences of MMOG‐based social relationships. Interview transcripts underwent thematic analysis and revealed that participants reported experiencing an MMOG‐based sense of community (a sense of belonging within the gaming or WoW community), discussed a number of different MMOG‐based social identities (such as gamer, WoW player and guild or group member) and stated that they derived social support (a perception that one is cared for and may access resources from others within a group) from their relationships with other players. The findings of this study confirm that MMOG players can form gaming communities. Almost all participants accessed or provided in‐game social support, and some gave or received broader emotional support. Players also identified as gamers and guild members. Fewer participants identified as WoW players. Findings indicated that changes to the game environment influence these relationships and further exploration of players' experiences could determine the optimal game features to enhance positive connections with fellow players. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.