Speaking Like a Man: Linguistic Convergence of Female Dota2 Gamers

Noor Farah Adeebah, Abdul Rahman (2024) Speaking Like a Man: Linguistic Convergence of Female Dota2 Gamers. Final Year Project (Bachelor), Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology.

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Abstract

Language practices reshape itself according to the domain and culture of its user. This mixed-method research intends to look into the role of language in a MOBA game called Dota2, investigating the speech convergence of female gamers towards the male linguistic features. Three theories are used; Men’s Language Framework by Mulac (2001) and Mehl and Pennebaker (2003) to categorize the male linguistic features; Women’s Language Framework by Lakoff (1973) to draw distinctions; Communication Accommodation Theory (CAT) by Giles (1973) to analyze motives of convergence. 2 questionnaires were given out to 10 female and 10 male participants to investigate their opinion on convergence and perception towards it respectively. Findings revealed that female players do converge towards the male linguistic features, noting its positive and negative implications. Data also shows that male players perceive the convergence with a mix of familiarity and acceptance. Results suggest that convergence occurs even within the gaming community and its culture plays a big role in dictating the language practices and perceptions.