Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Online gaming communities refer to groups of individuals who come together virtually to engage in multiplayer video games and interact with each other through online platforms.
Social identity refers to the part of an individual's self-concept that is derived from their membership in a particular social group. For example, within online gaming communities, players may develop a sense of identity based on the game they play or the team they belong to.
Anonymity refers to the condition of being anonymous or unidentified. In online gaming communities, players often have usernames instead of using their real names, which can contribute to a sense of anonymity and influence behavior.
Group norms are shared expectations and rules within a group that guide its members' behavior. Within online gaming communities, there may be specific norms regarding communication, sportsmanship, or teamwork that influence how individuals behave during gameplay.