The Impact of Toxic Behaviour on First-Person Shooter Players

Abstract

First-person shooter (FPS) games are intensely competitive, demanding coordination and teamwork, making communication and collaboration indispensable for success in the in-game experience. Nevertheless, toxic behaviour such as flaming, griefing, and sexual harassment, among others, has been displayed by several players to their team-mates through the voice and text in chat communication channels which can have a significant impact on players' game experience.

This thesis aimed to discover the impact of toxic behaviour on FPS game players and explore the experience encountered by Kajaani University of Applied Sciences esports degree students. The study was conducted using qualitative research methodology in which data was gathered through interviews with six participants, and the collected data were analysed through a thematic analysis approach.

The results increase the understanding of the negative consequences of toxic behaviour in FPS gaming communities and suggest ways to reduce such behaviours. The study concludes by proposing strategies to create a positive gaming environment, such as improving reporting mechanisms, increasing social value awareness and education about toxic behaviour, and promoting positive communication and teamwork.