More than addiction: Examining the role of anonymity, endless narrative, and socialization in prolonged gaming and instant messaging practices

Abstract

This ethnographic study explores a user’s prolonged engagement within virtual gaming communities. Likening prolonged engagement with addiction, this research provides an alternative perspective into virtual addiction focusing on three interrelated themes: 1) anonymity, 2) endless narrative, and 3) socialization. By employing narrative interviews and virtual observations, the researchers examine two different cultural, racial and age groups’ user experience within console and computer-based multiplayer environments. More specifically, they explore how the three factors (i.e., anonymity; endless narrative; socialization) relate to the prolonged and extended use within these virtual communities and highlight the multifaceted uses of traditional chat services, social media, and the convergence of media existing within these chat communities.

Authors and Affiliations

Kishonna Gray, Wanju Huang

Keywords

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  • EP ID EP41027
  • DOI -
  • Views 238
  • Downloads 0

How To Cite

Kishonna Gray, Wanju Huang (2015). More than addiction: Examining the role of anonymity, endless narrative, and socialization in prolonged gaming and instant messaging practices. Journal of Comparative Research in Anthropology and Sociology, 6(1), -. https://europub.co.uk/articles/-A-41027