Exploring the experiences and wellbeing of competitive women, transgender, and gender diverse gamers

Video gaming offers various benefits, such as social connections and improved wellbeing. However, as competitive video gaming continues to grow, gender-related harassment of women and transgender and gender diverse (TGD) gamers in competitive gaming environments persists. This study explored the experiences of gamers in gaming communities, their mental health, and gaming imposter syndrome. The study also explored women and TGD gamers’ experiences of gender-related harassment. Findings showed that ~87% of women and TGD gamers reported gender-related harassment and employed a range of avoidance action to minimise harassment. They also reported more worries about engaging in gaming communities, more gaming imposter syndrome, and poorer mental health. The findings highlight the pervasiveness of gender-related harassment in competitive video gaming and the reliance of short-term coping strategies among women and TGD gamers. While identity-specific communities may offer support, structural and cultural changes are needed to foster inclusive competitive gaming spaces.