Adolescent Social Gaming as a Form of Social Media: A Call for Developmental Science
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| Title: | Adolescent Social Gaming as a Form of Social Media: A Call for Developmental Science |
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| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Anne J. Maheux (ORCID |
| Source: | Child Development Perspectives. 2025 19(1):3-13. |
| Availability: | Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://www.wiley.com/en-us |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 11 |
| Publication Date: | 2025 |
| Sponsoring Agency: | National Science Foundation (NSF) |
| Contract Number: | 1940700 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Descriptive |
| Descriptors: | Adolescents, Games, Social Media, Play, Adolescent Development, Computer Oriented Programs, Peer Relationship, Self Concept, Neurology, Biology, Individual Differences, Interpersonal Competence |
| DOI: | 10.1111/cdep.12518 |
| ISSN: | 1750-8592 1750-8606 |
| Abstract: | Social gaming--online gameplay involving digital interactions with others--is a common form of social media use among adolescents. Research on this topic has neglected the social aspect of gaming and the potential role of social gaming in adolescent development. In this article, we define social gaming, drawing on interdisciplinary theories to clarify how it is both similar to and distinct from the app-based social media platforms that have received more research attention. We outline how social gaming may be uniquely rewarding and influential for adolescents, given three key features of adolescent development: peer relationships, identity development, and neurobiological development. We address how individual differences--including those related to social identities, neurobiology, and pre-existing social skills--may shape social gaming experiences and related outcomes. We conclude with a call for more work on how social gaming influences adolescent development and an agenda for researchers. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2025 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1460226 |
| Database: | ERIC |
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| Abstract: | Social gaming--online gameplay involving digital interactions with others--is a common form of social media use among adolescents. Research on this topic has neglected the social aspect of gaming and the potential role of social gaming in adolescent development. In this article, we define social gaming, drawing on interdisciplinary theories to clarify how it is both similar to and distinct from the app-based social media platforms that have received more research attention. We outline how social gaming may be uniquely rewarding and influential for adolescents, given three key features of adolescent development: peer relationships, identity development, and neurobiological development. We address how individual differences--including those related to social identities, neurobiology, and pre-existing social skills--may shape social gaming experiences and related outcomes. We conclude with a call for more work on how social gaming influences adolescent development and an agenda for researchers. |
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| ISSN: | 1750-8592 1750-8606 |
| DOI: | 10.1111/cdep.12518 |
