ARTICLES
DOI DOI: 10.38140/ijspsy.v5i3.2211

When gaming can be non-problematic and healthy

Fanni Putri Diantina 1, Elizabeth Kristi Poerwandari2, Triarini Indirasari 2
  1. 1 University of Indonesia, Indonesia
  2. 2 University of Indonesia, Indonesia

Abstract

The behaviours exhibited in online gaming today signify a change in meaning. Initially, games were merely entertainment, but now gaming is part of real life, with players becoming deeply involved and connected. This study explores how online games can be positive, adaptive activities rather than potential sources of problematic behaviours. The study applied a qualitative research design, conducting semi-structured, in-depth interviews with fifteen enthusiastic gamers who were characterised as individuals who had played daily for at least one year and spent at least four hours per day gaming. The study was guided by literature on gaming behaviours and dualistic passion models. The data were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis, which allowed for a detailed exploration of the participants' subjective experiences. Two superordinate themes were identified through the analysis. The first, meeting and satisfying personal needs, highlights gaming's multifaceted benefits, including entertainment, knowledge expansion, social skill enhancement, communication practice, and problem-solving strategy development. Participants also described gaming as supporting psychological well-being and fostering personal growth. The second, fulfilling fantasy and imagination, comprises role-playing and using cross-gender avatars. These practices allow players to explore different identities and narratives. Key findings are discussed through the framework of Jung’s theory of individuation. According to this theory, gamers incorporate archetypal elements, such as the anima-animus, shadow, and persona, into their gaming experiences. This integration promotes happiness and self-actualisation by fostering harmonious passion. The findings of this study contradict the prevailing notion that online gaming is inherently problematic. Contrary to these assumptions, the study posits that online games can function as effective conduits for self-expression. These virtual platforms enable individuals to articulate feminist ideals in a socially acceptable manner. These insights offer theoretical and practical contributions by reframing online gaming as a beneficial activity that fosters positive psychological states and balanced engagement.

How to Cite

Diantina , F. P., Poerwandari, E. K. ., & Indirasari , T. (2025). When gaming can be non-problematic and healthy. International Journal of Studies in Psychology, 5(3), 109–116. https://doi.org/10.38140/ijspsy.v5i3.2211
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