Reviewing the Emerging Literature on Video Gaming and Psychological Well-Being of Sexual and Gender Diverse Youth

Video games serve as a critical, multifaceted environment for sexual and gender diverse youth (SGDY), functioning as both a sanctuary for identity exploration and a potential site of psychological distress. By providing platforms for self-expression, social connection, and stress management, digital gaming environments allow marginalized youth to navigate identity development and build community. These virtual spaces often facilitate digital resilience, enabling players to find support systems that may be absent in their physical lives. The use of avatars, in particular, acts as a vital tool for gender affirmation and personal experimentation, highlighting the therapeutic potential of interactive media for this demographic.

Despite these benefits, the gaming experience for SGDY is frequently compromised by significant systemic challenges. Pervasive online harassment, exclusionary game mechanics, and the risk of maladaptive escapism present ongoing threats to the well-being of these players. The literature underscores a tension between the capacity for gaming to foster civic engagement and the reality of digital microaggressions that can exacerbate existing mental health vulnerabilities. These findings suggest that while gaming is a powerful medium for empowerment, it remains an environment that requires proactive management to mitigate harm.

Addressing these disparities necessitates a shift toward more inclusive design and robust content moderation strategies. Future progress depends on strengthening academic-industry partnerships to translate qualitative insights into actionable, prosocial gaming experiences. There is a clear need for expanded quantitative research to better understand the long-term psychosocial impacts of these digital interactions. By prioritizing inclusivity and safety, the gaming industry can transform these platforms into more supportive environments, ensuring that the benefits of digital community are accessible to all players regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.