Families and social network games

Abstract

Based on a study of individuals playing online social network games (SNG), this article focuses on the opinions and practices of people who play Facebook games with family members. Gameplay is contextualized in terms of (1) the structures of SNG (which shape gameplay in specific ways) and (2) via the norms and expectations for family leisure activities and relationships (which shape the social interactions in specific ways). The study offers an in-depth understanding of social network gameplay within the context of existing family – rather than friend – networks; as issues of trust and obligation come to the forefront through family ties. This study illustrates that SNGs offer new spaces for purposive leisure for families that transcends geographical boundaries.