Exploring children’s motivations for playing videogames

The aim of this project is to investigate children’s motivations for playing videogames. We will be doing this by using unique methods with children at the heart of the research.  The project will assist with developing an evidence-based understanding of children’s motivations for playing videogames, which can inform parenting decisions and provide insights to game developers.

Project aims:

• Identify children’s motivations for playing videogames.
• Identify whether children’s psychological needs (such as autonomy, feeling competent, and connection with others) are being met when playing videogames.
• Identify how children view themselves as ‘gamers’ and explore how this influences their identity.

Project design:

The research will take place at either Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Kelvin Grove campus or the University of Wollongong (UOW), Wollongong campus, and in the participants’ homes. There will be four stages.

• Stage 1 involves visiting one of the Technology Play Spaces (QUT or UOW) where the participants will participate in small groups to deconstruct ‘streamer’ videos together and talk about what they like about playing videogames.
• Stage 2 involves participants creating a 3-10 minute video of themselves (with the help of their parent/caregiver) streaming their videogame play whilst at home.
• Stage 3 involves participants returning to the Technology Play Space they previously visited (QUT or UOW) to participate in a group session to co-design interview questions for the participants to use to interview other participants in the study.
• Stage 4 involves participants conducting one-on-one Zoom interviews (of about 10-15 mins) with another participant utilising the previously co-constructed interview questions.

Call for participants

We are seeking children:

• 7 to 10 years of age,
• who have some experience playing videogames, and
• who have watched someone else playing videogames online (e.g., a videogame “streamer”).