Overwatch gameplay and its impact on teenager’s development

 

In exploring the Overwatch discourse community through primary research, a distinct picture emerges: a diverse, engaged group of players, creative content creators, and enthusiastic fans, interacting across various platforms, such as reddit and official Overwatch forum. This community's dynamics are characterized by collaborative gaming experiences, strategic communication, and an appreciation of character diversity. These elements not only define the community's culture but also influence its interaction patterns.


My document analysis of forum discussions, social media interactions, and streaming platform commentaries reveals a vibrant environment where players collaborate, strategize, and share experiences. This collaborative nature is the crucial part of the Overwatch community, which strongly fosters an inclusive and strategic gaming culture.

 

Connecting these findings to secondary sources deepens the understanding of the community's impact. The GEMH Lab's study on "The Influence of Playing Video Games on Social Development of Adolescents" (GEMH Lab, 2022.) provides an academic way of viewing these interactions. According to GEMH Lab, playing online games can positively influence adolescents by enhancing their social skills, problem-solving abilities, and providing a platform for social interaction and teamwork. (GEMH,2022.) In the Overwatch discourse community, the teenagers engage in different conversations when discussing game strategies, character roles, and collaborative gameplay, which as a result, can significantly enhance their communication and teamwork skills.



                                   teenagers playing games together by gemhlab



However, as more and more teenagers begin to send way more time playing video games, especially Overwatch, there are more and more consequences come afterwards. As GEMH Lab provides a broader perspective on the effects of online gaming on younger audiences, including potential risks like addiction and social withdrawal. (GEMH Lab, 2022.) This context is crucial in understanding the intense engagement within the Overwatch community. While the game promotes socialization and skill development, it also underscores the need for mindful gaming practices to prevent negative outcomes such as excessive playtime.

 

There are many ways to mitigate these risks. The Overwatch community has developed its own set of norms and guidelines, promoting responsible gaming habits. Community forums and social media platforms associated with Overwatch often feature discussions and advice on maintaining a healthy balance between gaming and other life activities. According to Kindbridge, Overwatch players can take various means to be healthier and balanced, such as taking breaks often, getting enough sleep and exercise, and eating healthy meals and staying hydrated (Kindbridge, 2022) This understanding is crucial for comprehensively grasping the Overwatch community's role within the broader landscape of online gaming.



                                               "stay hydrated" by pratimoksha


In conclusion, although Overwatch discourse community values team collaboration and mutual respect, they tend to care less about teenager’s development. As more and more teenagers begin to play Overwatch, it has become crucial to create a better environment just for the teenagers. In my opinions, the Overwatch discourse community should propose more and more plans, using authorized sources to guide teenagers to find a balanced and healthy way of playing video games. Through more and more engagement and encouragement, I believe Overwatch discourse community can play a significant role while helping teenagers achieve a more comprehensive and healthy development.



work cited:

User. (2022, July 20). Beat the heat.... tips to stay hydrated. Pratimoksha. 

Beat the heat…. Tips to stay hydrated - Pratimoksha


A healthy approach to overwatch 2. Kindbridge Behavioral Health. (2022, October 19). 

A Healthy Approach to Overwatch 2 (kindbridge.com)


Diezit. (n.d.). Gaming for emotional and mental health. GEMH Lab - Home.

GEMH Lab - Home





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