Extremists Using Platforms Like Twitch, Discord to Recruit & Radicalise Players: Study
Gaming has become an integral part of modern entertainment, with millions of people around the world engaging in online gaming communities. However, a recent study has raised concerns about the potential misuse of these platforms by extremist groups. According to the study published in Frontiers of Psychology, extremists are using platforms like Twitch and Discord to recruit and radicalize gamers.
Twitch and Discord are two popular platforms that allow gamers to chat and play simultaneously. While these platforms have been widely used for socializing and sharing gaming experiences, they have also become a breeding ground for extremist ideologies. The study found that far-right extremism is the most commonly shared ideology on these platforms.
The study’s co-author, Dr. Maria R. Haberfeld, a professor of sociology at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, said, “These platforms offer extremists direct access to large, often young and impressionable audiences.” She added, “Extremists use these platforms to spread their ideology, recruit new members, and create a sense of community among like-minded individuals.”
The study analyzed over 1,000 online gaming communities and found that a significant number of them had extremist content, including white supremacy, anti-Semitism, and Islamophobia. The researchers also found that many gamers were unaware of the extremist ideologies being promoted in these communities.
The use of gaming platforms by extremist groups is not a new phenomenon. In recent years, there have been several instances of gamers being radicalized by extremist ideologies while playing games online. In some cases, these individuals have gone on to commit violent acts or promote hate speech.
The study’s findings highlight the need for gaming platforms to take a more proactive approach in addressing extremist content. Twitch and Discord have already taken steps to remove extremist content from their platforms, but more needs to be done to prevent the spread of hate speech and extremist ideologies.
Gaming communities also have a crucial role to play in preventing the spread of extremist content. Gamers can play a critical role in reporting suspicious activity and promoting inclusivity and respect within their communities.
The study’s findings are a wake-up call for the gaming industry and the broader community. It is essential that we take a proactive approach in addressing the spread of extremist content and promoting a culture of respect and inclusivity within gaming communities.
Conclusion
The use of gaming platforms by extremist groups is a growing concern that requires immediate attention. The study’s findings highlight the need for gaming platforms to take a more proactive approach in addressing extremist content and for gamers to promote inclusivity and respect within their communities. It is essential that we work together to prevent the spread of hate speech and extremist ideologies and promote a culture of respect and inclusivity within gaming communities.
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