Understanding the Social Dividends and Risks for Female Gamers in Online Spaces

This paper presents a work in progress that focuses on exploring the social experiences of female gamers in online spaces. This qualitative study aimed to gather and analyse social experiences for female gamers from their own perspectives. Using purposeful sampling methods six female gamers were recruited and interviewed by the researchers. This data is currently undergoing thematic analysis, however, some emergent themes highlight participant's perspectives as to the toxicity and risk they face in choosing to play online alongside the positive experiences including the opportunities to recognise their shared experiences, support each other and thus co-create online spaces that support positive socialisation.