Cyber Bullying in a Virtual World
With fewer lockers around to be stuffed into, many adults are under the impression that their days of being bullied are well behind them. Unfortunately for the meek, bullying is still going strong in the virtual world of 'Second Life.'
For those unfamiliar with it, the online playground of 'Second Life' allows you to do just about anything you like. You create a character and outfit him or her with whatever equipment you choose. You can build a house, sell clothing, fly around, party the night away, etc. -- you get the idea. But, with more than seven million residents calling 'Second Life' their virtual home -- each free to do whatever he or she likes -- conflict was inevitable.
Cyber bullying (or, "griefing" as it's been termed) has become such a problem in 'Second Life' that it's inspired an investigation by researchers at Britain's University of Nottingham. The study rented a plot of land in 'Second Life' and, over the course of one week, invited people to come by to share tales of bullydom.
Fifty residents participated in the study, reporting incidents of harassment in the form of violence, vulgar language and even nudity. The worst story, however, came from one woman who was shot at and had her house trashed shortly after joining.
Indeed, just about everyone that came forward indicated that the bullying had occurred when they were new players. Once experienced, players were generally left alone by bullies.
For now, the game's creator, Linden Labs, isn't stepping in, leaving the citizens of its world to fend for themselves -- something experienced 'Lifers' are generally capable of. Sorry, newbies.
So, who else thinks 'Second Life' sounds a lot like prison?
From Newsvine and Times Online
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Sharon @ Jul 12th 2007 2:23PM
Yes, I was bullied when I was a newbie on Second Life, but it is a game for adults. I found out where the bullies were and stayed away from them. I joined a couple of groups, SL gamers with common interests, and have found a place in the game where I belong. I haven't been bullied since then.
I log in, play and have fun for a while, and log out when I am done, quite simple.
I like the fact that Linden Labs has not created a real police force. It gives gamers an opportunity to explore other cultures and interact peacefully with others that they might not get to know in a regulated society.
Islands for perverts are well marked and easily avoided. Just as the discos, casinos, malls, and other areas are well marked.
As a woman, I am much more harrassed by "pervs" in my real life work place, shopping areas, and parks. Oh, and just recently while driving down a real life street.
Second Life harrassment has nothing on what women regularly experience in our everyday real lives.