How does our experience with video games and social media affect the formation of our attitudes and identities? What does that mean for our mental health? We tackle these complex questions with a breadth of scientific methodologies, ranging from qualitative insight to computational analyses of game telemetry, and anything in-between. Our goal is to understand the emergence of online cultures and their effects on individuals and society.
How does culture form in internet communities?
Multiplayer video games, Twitch channels, and Discord servers, these are examples of spaces where communities are formed by individuals who share certain interests, attitudes or beliefs. Through online social interactions within these communities, how are these values transmitted and how do they impact offline behaviours? How can we leverage technological interventions like AI to bring a positive impact to these online communities?
Why do people play Video Games?
People have different motivations and reasons for playing video games. How are these related to their psychological tendencies, and can we detect these psychological traits through observing their play-styles in-game?
We invite students, researchers, and the general public interested in psychology and video games or social media to connect with us. Whether you want to learn more, collaborate, or contribute to ongoing studies, your participation is valuable.
Contact Kong today: kongmeng.liew@canterbury.ac.nz
Kongmeng Liew is a Lecturer in the Psychology of Social Media at the University of Canterbury. His research uses computational methods to examine the emergence of online culture in social media and video games, and their effects on mental health and wellbeing in users. He also conducts research on how chatbots can be used to support mental health, and his previous work has examined how culture influences music preferences.
Simon Hoermann is an Associate Professor at the School of Product Design at the University of Canterbury. He conducts research in the field of Human–Computer Interaction focusing on transformational computing for health and learning application, as well as for other domains that require human interface technology. His aim is to increase understanding on how technology and game design can enhance user experience and support healthy and people with disabilities in achieving their full potential.
To find out more about our members, what they are up, or to get in contact please visit their profiles below!
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