Research highlights gender euphoria in video games for trans people

A project, conducted by researchers at the University of Nottingham, highlights video gaming and its potential for gender exploration and euphoria for transgender players. The study found that video game avatars can have huge mental health benefits for trans and nonbinary people due to the possibilities of customisation and the safety of exploring in online spaces.

Experts from the University of Nottingham's School of Psychology examined research from the past decade. The findings were published in the International Journal of Transgender Health.

“Findings highlight avatar customization as a unique mechanism for exploring, expressing, and affirming gender identity for TGD [trans and gender diverse] players with positive impact on wellbeing,” the researchers said. “Participants reported reduced gender dysphoria and increased gender euphoria when avatars aligned with their gender identity and desired expression.”

The research reviewed 14 empirical studies conducted since 2013. It found that, while some games offer more benefits than others and there are often limitations, video games can provide a safe space for people to explore their gender identity.

Two key elements were noted in the research. The first found that higher levels of customisation, with different physical traits, can greatly enhanced the potential for gender exploration and euphoria. This, the research found, was particularly true in narrative games with greater role-playing components, allowing for more immersive game play.

“Participants in the studies that were reviewed reported reduced gender dysphoria and increased gender euphoria when avatars aligned with their gender identity and desired expression.” reports Jane Icke, Media Relations Manager for Science, Faculty of Registrars at the University of Nottingham. “This effect was particularly strong when other players affirmed the players' gender identity based on their in-game avatar.”

On the whole, the study found that video gaming can provide safer environments for people to explore gender identity without the risks that come with doing so in the physical world.

The review was led by Dr. Cecilie Lolansen from the School of Psychology at the University of Nottingham. She said, "In times of increasing infringements on transgender and gender-diverse people's rights and access to care, it's becoming incredibly important to explore new ways of supporting these individuals, particularly when gender-affirming care may be limited.

"Our findings are not only important for cyberpsychology, but for clinicians and health care providers seeking to support transgender and gender-diverse individuals using a low-cost intervention to enhance their well-being,"

Dr. Nikki Dean Marshall adds: "This research shows that video games can be more than just entertainment, they can be affirming spaces that support identity development. Game designers and mental health professionals have an opportunity to leverage these findings for inclusive design and psychological interventions."