Investigating the Role of Technology in Supporting Exploration of Gender Identity Through Games and Play

Abstract

Understanding and reflecting on gender identity is important for many individuals across the spectrum of gender, whether they are trans/gender diverse, questioning and/or cisgender. Games have potential to support and provide safe spaces and tools for such explorations, but their design presents challenges of its own. This research seeks to understand how playful spaces allow for meaningful exploration and positive experiences of gender identity that is supportive of diversity and fluidity across the spectrum of gender, and how this can be enhanced. We aim to examine how games can allow exploration of gender in a more nuanced, inclusive way, so that more individuals can explore their identity across multiple dimensions (physical, cognitive, behavioural, affective and social) and find ways to express this in playful ways. Exploratory, qualitative methods will be used to develop an in-depth understanding of how technology can accomplish this with end users. Through examining prototypes developed by participants, we will interrogate the potential for technology to address these different dimensions of gender, to enhance reflection and exploration of identity away from stereotypical, binary norms.