Informal Social-Emotional Learning in Gaming Affinity Spaces: Evidence From a Reddit Discussion Thread on Elden Ring

Background Over the past few years, there has been extensive discussion and research on social-emotional learning (SEL) in formal educational settings. However, there is limited research on SEL in informal learning contexts, including online sites such as gaming affinity spaces. Aim This qualitative study aimed to investigate the social-emotional competencies demonstrated by players in a Reddit discussion board focused on Elden Ring, a video game known for its challenging difficulty. Methods The study utilized theoretical qualitative thematic analysis on a focal thread at r/Eldenring. The thread had been upvoted over 18,000 times, included 2,363 comments encompassing 116,911 words, and had 997,765 readers when we extracted it for data analysis. Inductive codes were identified and grouped under preconceived themes based on the conceptual framework of the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), which comprises five components: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Findings The analysis revealed promising social-emotional competencies demonstrated by players across all five components of the CASEL framework. Players exhibited self-awareness by reflecting on their emotions and self-management by regulating their frustration and persevering through challenges. Social awareness was displayed by showing empathy and encouragement towards others, relationship skills by offering support and advice to fellow players, and responsible decision-making by analyzing situations, solving problems, and reflecting on gameplay experiences. Conclusion This study highlights the potential for informal SEL in gaming affinity spaces, as evidenced by players exhibiting social-emotional competencies during a Reddit discussion thread on Elden Ring. Future research should examine, among other aspects, the learning processes that facilitate the acquisition of social-emotional competencies in gaming affinity spaces and other informal learning environments, both online and offline. Additionally, special attention should be paid to the unique features of online platforms (like Reddit’s upvoting/downvoting) and their influence on users’ interactions and SEL.