The Impact of Neutral Gender Characters in Electronic Games on Adolescents Gender Cognition and Strategies for Improvement

Abstract

This study aims to explore the influence of neutral gender characters in electronic games on adolescents gender cognition and proposes potential improvement strategies for the current situation. The research employs an interview-based approach to investigate the gender-related confusion encountered by adolescents during their developmental stages and examines the current status of neutral gender characters in the contemporary electronic game market, tracing their origins. As adolescents are in a stage of developing gender identity, the introduction of neutral gender characters in electronic games may contribute to fostering positive gender identity and exploration. Consequently, the goal of this study is to better understand the shaping role of electronic games on adolescents gender perceptions, promote the gaming industry toward more diverse and inclusive gender expressions, advance societal gender equality perspectives, stimulate adolescents creative expression, and cultivate a broader societal attitude of openness and respect towards diverse genders.