The Culture of Videogames
The cyberbullying population resides on the male side of the systematic review because many men reportedly use explicit language to cyberbully and harass other gamers. However, on the other side, men who claim they don’t bully represent another demographic that may influence what makes a woman vulnerable to trust a man who won’t bully her. A woman also may gain the confidence to bully a more vulnerable man who doesn’t fit the narrative of an online bully. This creates a heated debate about online cyberbullying between both genders.
As far as doxxing goes, most of this behavior is normalized depending on the political atmosphere, and some users may attempt to extort others into submission. Doxxing can compromise not just a child’s information, but their parent’s information as well, making them targets of bullying and harassment.
Cyberbullying has taken over the gaming industry, and it can encourage players to say whatever they want.
Doxxing is another form of manipulation between gamers who gain access to other gamers’ financial information, as well as their parents’ information, which makes that information very sensitive and can turn parents into targets of cyber attacks.
SMC alumnus Rayah Todov said, “I don't think doxxing people is right, that's their personal information, that’s their personal life and it doesn’t belong on the internet, especially if they didn’t consent to it.”
This concern can extend beyond the individual and affect entire families, especially when parents entrust financial information to their children. Though it may be scary, sometimes you must deal with the problem because there are some people who can be evil. They try to belittle others because they don’t like them. This is another reason parents can become targets.
Mr. Beast, for instance, has used his platform to give away money and prizes and create game shows that feature participants’ personal stories. Based on my observation, many so-called streamers highlight their best moments or record situations where trolls make racist jokes, yet those moments still receive laughs regardless of the target’s background. These creators often use such content to build an audience and benefit their platforms.
A Former Therapist from the Mental Awareness fair from one of the tables, who requested anonymity for personal reasons, said, “When you communicate behind camera, things can be socially unacceptable.” However, content creators may show compassion to their audience on camera. Still, it is possible for someone’s on-camera and off-camera personalities to differ.
Welcoming people into the world of gaming changes everything. The process of entering gaming often begins with turning on a console and connecting to the internet, where millions of players create memories and friendships. People who build relationships while playing games can come to trust others and develop perspectives shaped by gaming culture.
As far as looking for a genuine connection, creating a safe space where a person can express themselves allows people to identify and present themselves however they choose.
Mental health has taken a toll on female and male gamers who have been through these situations, sometimes contributing to suicide attempts. These experiences have shaped the way we view cyberbullying today, as well as bullying in person.
“Sparking controversial conversations about cyberbullying is how it is being spread through social media but also how political beliefs and the LGBTQ community is sensitive about the topics being used as a joke, to create a diverse environment where social cliques welcome racist and sexist jokes,” Todov said.
In a recent study by Propelrc, researchers documented 24 confirmed gaming-related deaths between 1982 and 2026, with the majority occurring in Asia. In the same interview, Todov said that doxxing can take away a child’s innocence.
As an attempted-suicide survivor, I have been through these situations dozens of times, to the point that hackers have threatened to doxx my data. Even though they have not been successful in damaging my image, my mental health has always made me feel unsure about who to trust. But that is not my point. My point is that people have emotions, and a child who does not want anything to do with bullying should not have to suffer because of it.
Mental health is a serious issue for people who have been through the worst stages of their lives, whether it’s addiction, feelings of hopelessness or abandonment issues. In the end, we are humans in need of emotional connection. There are several hotlines available to those seeking help. If you or someone you know is going through a difficult time, don’t hesitate to call these hotlines.
Mental health Crisis Resources:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1 (800) 273-8255
Los Angeles County Dept of Mental Health: (800) 854-7771
LA county dial 211 (psych hold)