VIDEOGAMES AND GENDER STEREOTYPES 2

Abstract

Video games have grown over the years to become one of the most popular forms of
entertainment, particularly among young people. As this form of entertainment has grown in
popularity concerns have been raised about its impact on young people. In particular, makers of
video games have been accused of perpetuating gender stereotypes. Men are portrayed as strong,
violent, merciless, leaders, intelligent, and having initiative. Women, on the other hand, are
portrayed as lacking independence, beautiful, and object of men’s sexual desires and fantasies. In
addition, even though women appear in video games, they are usually given less prominent roles
compared to those given to men. These negative stereotypes have rightfully been pointed by
many critics as well as supporters of video games. There is a feeling that negative gender
stereotypes, particularly those dealing with women reinforce unhealthy perceptions among both
men and women about the role of women in the society. Coverage of video games promotion
negative gender stereotypes has been so widespread that the fact that there are many video games
that do not promote traditional gender stereotypes has been ignored. In these video games
women play prominent roles, take up leadership roles, and have all the attributes that are
traditionally associated with men such as strength and decisiveness. Some of these video games
have changed their portrayal of women following outcry about negative portrayal of women.
Some, however, have been promoting positive gender stereotypes long before it became a major
issue. Thus, while the issue of video games promoting gender stereotypes has rightfully received
a lot of attention, the situation in the video games industry regarding portrayal of men and
women is more complex. This is especially the case in recent times when video games have
become more aware of the sensitivity surrounding their gender portrayal.
Keywords: Videogames, gender stereotypes.