Reasons for Avatar Gender Swapping by Online Game Players: A Qualitative Interview-Based Study

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Author(s): Yu-Jen Chou (Ming Chuan University, Taiwan), Shao-Kang Lo (Chinese Culture University, Taiwan)and Ching-I Teng (Chang Gung University, Taiwan)
Copyright: 2017
Pages: 18
Source title: Discrimination and Diversity: Concepts, Methodologies, Tools, and Applications
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): Information Resources Management Association (USA)
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-5225-1933-1.ch011

Keywords: Gender & Diversity / Information Science Reference / Medicine & Healthcare / Sociology

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Abstract

Players of massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPG) frequently select avatars of the opposite gender, a phenomenon known as gender swapping. While this phenomenon is widely recognized, little is known about the underlying reasons. This study thus examines why players use opposite-gender avatars. Heterogeneity sampling is used to maximize information completeness. Data are obtained from interviews with 21 MMORPG players in Taiwan. The core theme identified is “increased enjoyment”, which itself integrates six more specific themes or aspects (social interaction, harassment avoidance, obtaining free gifts, fooling others, fantasy experiences and playing superior avatars) through which players derive increased enjoyment from game playing with gender-swapped avatars. This exploratory work creates a foundation for future research to develop and test hypotheses linking gender-swapping with player psychology or behavior.

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Reasons for Avatar Gender Swapping by Online Game Players: A Qualitative Interview-Based Study

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