Many gamers experience post-game depression, a phenomenon characterized by feelings of emptiness and loss after completing a favorite video game. This emotional response is attributed to parasocial attachment, a one-sided emotional connection formed with characters and fictional worlds. Understanding the psychology behind these attachments can help gamers cope with post-game depression.
Key Points
- Parasocial Attachment Defined:
- Parasocial attachment refers to one-sided emotional connections individuals form with characters or worlds in video games. Despite knowing that these entities are fictional, players develop a sense of connection and familiarity.
- Common in Pop Culture:
- Similar attachments are observed in other areas of pop culture, such as fans feeling a deep connection to celebrities like Betty White, even if they never personally knew them.
- Comfort in Familiarity:
- People derive comfort from the familiar, even if the fictional worlds, like Hyrule in Breath of the Wild, are not inherently comforting. This stems from an instinct developed in infancy, seeking familiarity for safety and comfort.
- Prevalence During the Pandemic:
- The COVID-19 pandemic has likely intensified parasocial attachments, as individuals turn to media for comfort and social connection in the absence of regular social interactions.
- Normalcy of Parasocial Attachments:
- Parasocial attachments are considered normal and reasonable by psychologists. These connections provide a sense of safety and security, akin to real and physically proximal attachments.
- Coping Strategies:
- Coping with post-game depression involves recognizing it as a form of grief and seeking comfort in other relationships. Connecting with friends and family, engaging in other forms of entertainment, or starting a new game are recommended coping strategies.
- Replay and Fandom:
- Replaying the same game or engaging in fandom activities, such as participating in forums, creating fan content, or attending conventions, can help extend the connection and alleviate feelings of loss.
- Acceptance of Emotions:
- It’s essential to acknowledge and accept the sadness associated with post-game depression. Sitting with these feelings and allowing them to pass is a valid part of the emotional experience.
Conclusion
Post-game depression is a common emotional response resulting from the loss of a parasocial attachment formed with a video game’s characters and world. Recognizing the psychological aspects of these attachments and employing coping strategies, including connecting with others and exploring new entertainment options, can help individuals navigate and overcome the feelings of emptiness associated with completing a beloved game.
Author of Social News Outlet, Tanvi Garg weaves compelling narratives that illuminate the human stories behind headlines.
