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Real-world impact: Abusive language in video games and its effect on adolescents
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n today's fast-paced technological landscape, video games have become an essential form of entertainment, offering interactive and immersive experiences. However, the increasing popularity of both online and offline gaming has led to a worrying trend, the widespread use of abusive language. Excessive gaming mainly affects students, including children, teenagers and adults. They often forget their responsibilities and lose track of time due to their passion for gaming. While playing games can reduce stress and fill spare time, it can also be a source of income for some teenagers, commonly called game jockeys. This article explores the consequences of abusive language in video games on players' daily lives. The language used in video games can negatively affect players' daily lives, and this article delves into those consequences.
Online multiplayer games often involve players from diverse backgrounds and cultures, creating an environment where individuals can communicate with each other in real time. This is in contrast with offline games, which are not connected to other players and do not require an internet connection. It is important to note that this abusive language does not represent most players who engage in respectful and constructive communication. Unfortunately, the anonymity provided by online platforms has led to an increase in abusive language. Derogatory comments, hate speech and profanity are unfortunately prevalent in gaming culture, which can negatively impact players of all ages.
Abusive language is frequently used by players in online and offline games, both in-game chat and voice communication, as well as by in-game characters. It is widespread in popular online games like Mobile Legends, PUBG, Free Fire, DOTA and GTA V, as well as offline games like GTA San Andreas and Bully, which can be played on PlayStation, PC, or mobile devices.
Every activity impacts individuals, and playing games is no exception. There are both positive and negative impacts. The positive impact includes training in cooperation, improving concentration and decision-making, increasing creativity, honing thinking skills, improving English-language skills and learning new vocabulary. In language learning, understanding vocabulary is the most basic requirement, including its usage in writing and speaking. However, the use of profanity by children and adults is not appropriate. While it may be used to express the speaker's feelings or show closeness with peers, rude language should be avoided. Additionally, it is essential to note that modifying such language into the native language or mother tongue of the speaker does not make it any less offensive.
Online games can sometimes serve as an outlet for emotions. Additionally, it has been noted that the use of abusive language when losing is a common bad habit among many gamers. This behavior can have particularly adverse effects on children and teenagers, who are more vulnerable to the harmful effects of verbal abuse in video games. Exposure to constant verbal abuse can lead to increased levels of stress, anxiety and even depression. The impact of this behavior is not only immediate but can also have long-term consequences on the mental health of young individuals. Research has demonstrated that extended exposure to negative online interactions can lead to aggressive behavior and desensitization to inappropriate language.
While online or offline games may influence a person's behavior and language, it is essential to consider other factors, such as interactions with the surrounding environment, including family, peers and social media. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid solely attributing abusive vocabulary to gaming and to consider the broader context. Several studies have shown that social and family environments significantly impact children's language development and behavior.
In daily life, the use of profanity or taboo language is common. However, it is important to educate individuals, particularly children and teenagers, on the appropriate use of language. Efforts can be made to reduce the impact of abusive language by understanding the reasons behind its use and discussing its consequences empathetically. It is crucial to clarify the harmful effects of abusive language in simple terms and raise awareness of its impact on both oneself and others. Conducting family discussions to establish agreed-upon language norms and using consequences to discourage the use of abusive language can be effective.
Furthermore, it is essential to address the habit of using abusive language and replace it with more appropriate language. It is important to teach individuals how their language can harm others' feelings. It is crucial to avoid abusive language. It is equally important to lead by example and use polite language while showing respect to others.
As online multiplayer games become more popular, addressing the issue of abusive language is crucial. It has a significant impact on children and young people, affecting their mental health, social development and overall well-being. Game developers, parents and the gaming community must work together to create a safer and more inclusive online environment. By promoting responsible behavior and encouraging positive gaming experiences, we can work to reduce the adverse impact of abusive language on our youth.
The writer is a lecturer at the Faculty of Letters (FS) Warmadewa University, Bali
