Theorizing VRChat : comprehensive view of the Lebanese gamer in the virtual realm

Abstract

This paper studies concepts from the uses and gratifications theory and gender theory amongst Lebanese VRChat players. It studies the concepts of catharsis, diversion, social utility, vicarious experience, and escapism, as well as the male gaze, gender identity, ego ideals, and toxic masculinity. The thesis objective is to determine the transcendence of the mentioned concepts into the virtual gaming world among Lebanese video gamers. The research was conducted qualitatively through semi-structured in-depth interviews as well as participant observation to further verify the obtained data. Findings show that the mentioned theoretical concepts cement themselves in the online world for various reasons as explained by the respondents throughout the thesis.