A Closer Look at Loneliness, Play Habits, and Gender Differences
Research findings are mixed when it comes to the relationship between loneliness and video gaming. While some studies suggest that gaming can help people cope with loneliness by offering opportunities for social interaction, other research argues that gaming might replace more meaningful face-to-face interactions, potentially making feelings of loneliness worse. Longitudinal data suggests that loneliness is more likely a driver of social gaming rather than a consequence, and we followed this perspective in exploring how loneliness may be associated with various gaming-related behaviors and experiences.
Our recent Pulse Survey explored this relationship using a diverse sample of 1,500+ U.S. adolescents aged 13 to 17. Unlike previous studies that primarily concentrated on the time spent gaming, our research explored the social interactions and dynamics within the gaming world. We took a deeper dive into the findings with our white paper (commissioned by the Ruderman Family Foundation) — Connected Play: Adolescent Gaming and Perceived Loneliness. In it, we assess gaming habits such as what types of games young people play, who they typically play with, and how they engage with others, to provide fresh insights into the connections between gaming habits and loneliness. We also highlight the significant role gender plays in these dynamics, shedding light on how social gaming experiences may vary markedly between boys and girls.
Loneliness and Increased Game Play
We found that adolescents who reported higher levels of loneliness not only gamed more but were also more likely to interact with others within the game environment and face negative social experiences (i.e. “toxic” or “unsafe”) during play. For example, lonelier teens reported more frequent exposure to toxic behavior and unsafe interactions, particularly when engaging with strangers online. This suggests that while gaming might be particularly appealing to those who are experiencing loneliness, it may not necessarily foster the meaningful connections these teens are seeking, and in some cases, it may even intensify feelings of social isolation.
This highlights the importance of promoting balanced gaming habits and creating online environments that prioritize safe and positive (i.e. “civil”, “safe”) social interactions. For both caregivers and game designers, understanding and helping teens to navigate this balance is key to supporting those who may be at risk of becoming trapped in a loop where gaming and loneliness feed off one another.
Gender Differences in Social Gaming
Our analysis finds that gender plays a significant role in how adolescents engage with social gaming. The survey reveals that boys are more likely than girls to game with strangers and use gaming as a coping mechanism for loneliness. Girls, on the other hand, are more likely to game with friends and family members, which may protect them from some of the negative experiences boys encounter. Girls tend to view gaming as more collaborative and social, especially when playing with known contacts. This pattern of play may offer a sense of emotional support and community, contrasting with the more competitive and often solitary nature of boys’ gaming experience.
Implications for Game Design
These findings suggest that who adolescents are playing with, and how they are interacting are critical factors associated with their gaming experiences and wellbeing. Game designers have a unique opportunity to create environments that emphasize collaboration, community-building, and safety, particularly for boys who may be more likely to turn to gaming as a way to cope with loneliness.
Implications for Parents and Caregivers
Parents and caregivers can also play a role by encouraging adolescents to engage in gaming experiences that are positive and social, rather than competitive and potentially isolating. Monitoring who teens are playing with, encouraging them to game with friends and family, and discussing online safety are all important strategies for mitigating the risks associated with social gaming.
Moving Forward
As adolescent gaming continues to evolve into a space for both social interaction and entertainment, it is essential to consider the nuanced ways in which loneliness and gender shape these experiences. By creating supportive gaming environments and fostering healthy online behaviors, we can help ensure that gaming remains a positive outlet for connection and growth during this critical developmental stage.