About this Research
This research project explores the concepts of play, deep play, and dark play within digital relationships, examining how virtual environments act as stages for both innocent fantasies and subversive interactions. The study focuses on dating simulations (otome games, eroge, etc.,) and AI-driven chatbots, investigating how these platforms blur the boundaries between fantasy and reality in intimate relationships.
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Explore how digital platforms serve as stages for the performance of intimacy.
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Examine the application of Clifford Geerz's concept of deep play and Richard Schechners further investigation of play, deep play, and dark play in virtual relationships.
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Investigate the impact of deep and dark play on users' perceptions of intimacy and real-world relationships.
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Analyze the ethical implications of engaging with taboo subjects in digital environments.
This research is being conducted by a doctoral candidtate at the University of Hawaii at Manoa with extensive personal experience with otome games and digital relationships. This reserach will be conducted under the supervision of a fulltime faculty advisor and full dissertation committe comprised of current and emeritus faculty from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa. Findings will be presented in the doctoral dissertation and potentially published in relevant academic journals and/or presented in whole or in part at academic conferences.
Methodology
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Qualitative content analysis of games,chatbots, and online communities.
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Online surveys with players, and outside community members.
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Critical game analysis of selected dating sims and AI Chatbots.
Study Population
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Adults aged 18 and over.
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Experience with or interest in dating sims (i.e., otome games, eroge games) and/or AI chatbots.
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Those with no experience with datings sims and AI chatbots may also participate.
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Ability to understand and communicate in English.
Data Collection Procedures
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Anonymous online surveys.
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Analysis of gameplay, narrative scripts, and online community interactions.
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Documentation of gameplay experiences and narrative elements.
Ethical Considerations
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IRB approval has been obtained before commencing human subject research.
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All data will be anonymized and kept confidential.
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Participants will be provided with informed consent information.
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Resources for support or counseling can be found under resources & info.
Data Analysis
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Categorization of content based of recurring themes, concepts, or patterns.
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Identification of broader themes emerging from the data.
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Interpretation of themes within the context of research objectives.
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Basic descriptive statistics on survey data.
Potential Benefits
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Contribution to understanding of digital relationships and their impact on society.
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Advancement of theoretical frameworks in performance studies and digital relationship research
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Insights for game developers and AI designers on creating more ethical digital platforms
Potential Risks &
Mitigation
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Psychological discomfort: Participants may experience mild discomfort when reflecting on personal experiences. They will be will be given the option to withdraw from the study at any time.
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Privacy concerns: Strict data protection measures will be implemented to ensure participant anonymity.
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All data survey results will be destoryed at the completion of research.
Timeline
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Fall 2024 - Spring 2028
Questions & More Info
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For additional questions and information, please use the contact form on the contact page.
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