The Functions of Role-Playing Games: How Participants Create Community, Solve Problems and Explore Identity

· McFarland
5 reviews
Ebook
216
Pages
Tools
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About this ebook

This study takes an analytical approach to the world of role-playing games, providing a theoretical framework for understanding their psychological and sociological functions. Sometimes dismissed as escapist and potentially dangerous, role-playing actually encourages creativity, self-awareness, group cohesion and "out-of-the-box" thinking. The book also offers a detailed participant-observer ethnography on role-playing games, featuring insightful interviews with 19 participants of table-top, live action and virtual games.
This study takes an analytical approach to the world of role-playing games, providing a theoretical framework for understanding their psychological and sociological functions. Sometimes dismissed as escapist and potentially dangerous, role-playing actually encourages creativity, self-awareness, g...

Ratings and reviews

5 reviews
Matt B
April 30, 2014
This work is great for explaining what role-playing is and also it's purpose. Bowman does a great job at explaining why role-playing is relevant in society and how it is already part of society. If one ever wonder what role-playing is then this is a work that I'd recommend to read.
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About the author

Sarah Lynne Bowman is an adjunct professor at the University of Texas at Dallas, Richland College, Ashford University, and Brookhaven College. Her current research focus emphasizes character development and social dynamics in role-playing games. She lives in Round Rock, Texas.
Sarah Lynne Bowman is an adjunct professor at the University of Texas at Dallas, Richland College, Ashford University, and Brookhaven College. Her current research focus emphasizes character development and social dynamics in role-playing games. She lives in Round Rock, Texas.

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