Bastian, Brock, Jetten, Jolanda, and Radke, Helena R.M. (2012) Cyber-dehumanization: Violent video game play diminishes our humanity. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 48 (2). pp. 486-491.

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Abstract

Across two studies we show that engaging in violent video game play diminishes perceptions of our own human qualities. In addition, when other players are the targets of this violence it reduces our perceptions of their humanity also. In Study 1, we demonstrate that playing Mortal Kombat against another player reduces the perceived humanity of the self as well as the humanity of one's opponent (compared to playing a non-violent game). In Study 2 we replicate this effect on perceived humanity of the self when playing a violent game with a co-player. However, we find no dehumanization of co-players who are not the targets of violence. We demonstrate these effects cannot be reduced to mood, self-esteem, gender, or other characteristics of the game such as excitement and enjoyment. The findings provide a broader perspective from which to view previous work on the adverse effects of violent video games.

Item ID:	80785
Item Type:	Article (Research - C1)
ISSN:	1096-0465
Copyright Information:	© 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Date Deposited:	24 Jun 2024 05:02
FoR Codes:	52 PSYCHOLOGY > 5205 Social and personality psychology > 520505 Social psychology @ 100%
SEO Codes:	28 EXPANDING KNOWLEDGE > 2801 Expanding knowledge > 280121 Expanding knowledge in psychology @ 100%
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