Types of Toxic Communication Among Adolescent Mobile Legends Players
Bentuk-bentuk Toxic Communication Pada Remaja Pemain Mobile Legend
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21070/ups.12268Keywords:
Toxic communication, Mobile legends, Cultivation TheoryAbstract
The popularity of Mobile Legends among teenagers has made it not only a source entertainment but
a medium for the spread of negative communication. Using George Gerbner's Cultivation Theory,
qualitative study examines how repeated exposure to toxic messages shapes teenagers' perceptions and
communication patterns. Data collected through observations of 20 teenagers in Pungging Village while
playing the game. The findings reveal three dominant forms of toxic communication: verbal aggression,
characterized by spontaneous insults or harsh language after losing a match; sarcasm and mockery, aimed at
teammates perceived as performing poorly; and cynicism, involving harsh criticism attacks other players'
self-esteem. These behaviors create an unhealthy communication environment and reduce quality of social
interaction during gameplay. The study indicates a process social imitation, where teenagers gradually
adopt abusive communication styles they repeatedly encounter in game. Continuous exposure to such
behavior may normalize toxic communication, influence their attitudes and interactions in everyday life.
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