How video games can make young men feel less alone
Young American men are in trouble. They are the loneliest demographic in the Western world. Their social circles are shrinking. At all ages, they are significantly more likely to die by suicide than their female peers. But if there’s one place where young American men are likely to congregate, regardless of race or political beliefs, […]
In recent years, young American men have been facing a significant loneliness crisis, with their social circles contracting and suicide rates among their peers surpassing those of women. However, video games have emerged as a potential solution, offering a sense of community and belonging for these individuals. According to a 2017 Pew study, 72% of men under 30 play video games often or sometimes, and for many, this virtual world provides a safe haven.
Video game expert George E. Osborn, founder of Half-Space Consulting, highlights the untapped potential of gaming communities for building connections. Osborn, who has authored a book on the subject, reveals that both anti-democratic forces and violent actors have long exploited the gaming space for their own purposes. In the United States, the Gamergate controversy of 2014 serves as a prime example, where a group of gamers united to harass female developers and journalists, eventually becoming a recruiting ground for the alt-right movement.
Despite these darker aspects, Osborn also emphasizes the potential benefits of gaming communities. He argues that video games can help people understand complex issues such as pandemics, autocracies, and climate change. Furthermore, they can foster connections among individuals, potentially reducing feelings of loneliness among young men who are otherwise struggling.
In a recent interview, I had the opportunity to discuss these findings with Osborn, aiming to understand their implications for the young men who are deeply invested in video games and are currently facing numerous challenges. Our conversation, which has been edited for clarity and length, sheds light on the diverse opportunities that gaming communities can offer, ultimately transforming the way these individuals perceive themselves and their place in the world.
Written by urgent.news from Vox's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
