Perceptions about online hate speech in games and gaming communities: results from a survey in Portugal

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a survey aimed at students aged between 10 and 18 from three schools in the South of Portugal. The purpose of the survey was to gather information about their perspectives regarding online hate speech (OHS). The study, whose central objective is to understand the intricate dynamics of online video games and social gaming platforms, is part of a project entitled "PROPS: Interactive Narratives Propose a Pluralistic Speech". From the data collected, the project envisages the creation of a set of interactive media designed to counteract main OHS discourses. By developing a thoughtful approach to the emergent issue of OHS, the aim is to promote media literacy in young players, thus cultivating a gaming environment that is both inclusive and safe.