Relationship Development in Gaming

In a recent study published in an international, peer-reviewed journal, authors examined the motivations of online gaming for adolescents in a popular Facebook game called Happy Farm. Research revealed the importance of social interaction with other users in the game (Huang, Yang, & Chen, 2015). The social interactions within the game were a great predictor of user motivation.

In another peer reviewed article, authors discussed the importance of interaction in an online environment while analyzing student motivation in virtual environments. "the need for contact with peers who have similar interests and abilities is particularly important, not only to their sense of identity but also to motivation" (Housand & Housand, 2012). The article explains that virtual environments expand adolescents' opportunities to interact with others, meaning there are more possibilities to develop relationships.

For users to be motivated in continuing their usage of a game, there must be some form of gratification or reward. With research showing social interaction to be a major predictor of motivation, a question of relationship development in gaming comes to mind. What factors of satisfaction in relationships do users get through virtual interaction?

Two major factors in interpersonal relationship development are similarity and compatibility ([Greg Rickert], 2015). We often want to develop relationships with other who have similar interests or abilities. We also tend to gravitate to other who are compatible with our own personalities and skills. For example, if a person isn't good at managing finances, they might be more opt to developing a relationship with someone who is good at managing finances because they want to learn from them.

In gaming, similarity and compatibility are important in relationship development. Users of similar playing style, skill level, and experience, are likely to develop relationships together because they can compete and progress with some challenge. In terms of compatibility, a group of players varying in skills and specialties combined create a strong team. Users can get a sense of inclusion and belonging as a result of these relationship developments.

While some factors of relationship development are reflected in gaming, there are other important aspects of development that are less likely to be demonstrated. Relationships in gaming do not reflect the same stress and difficulties real-life relationships endure. For example, disclosure is another important aspect of relationship development ([Greg Rickert], 2015). At this stage in development, reciprocated trust can be established, which leads to growth and unbreakable bonds. Relationships at this level are deep and meaningful, but take time to develop because of the stress and emotional investment that comes along with it. Relationships within game environments may go through struggles and challenges within the game, but those struggles stay within the context of gaming.

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