Gendered Aggression in Gaming: My Experience in Online Spaces

When I first entered the world of online gaming, I expected camaraderie and fun, but quickly encountered hostility. Using a feminine username and my voice in MMO and co-op games, I became a target of swearing and attacks from male players. My friend advised me to adopt a neutral or masculine username, which underscored the gendered dynamics at play. I was often harassed and forced to leave my team, with the solution becoming not to speak or reveal any femininity.

This experience reflects the concept of hegemonic masculinity (Connell, 1995), where traditional masculine traits are privileged and reinforced, often at the expense of women and gender-diverse individuals. In gaming culture, this manifests as a hostile environment where femininity is ridiculed, and aggression is normalized. Women are frequently treated as intruders, facing hostility for existing in a space historically created for and dominated by men.


Connell, R.W.: (1995). Masculinities

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