Impactos do RPG em aspectos de saúde mental, percepção de suporte social, estratégias de coping e estresse de minoria

Abstract

The LGBTQIAPN+ population is more vulnerable to mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and stress, as a result of processes related to stigma, discrimination, and minority stress. In this context, Role-Playing Games (RPGs) have been investigated as potential resources for support, socialization, skill development, and mental health promotion, although the literature on their relationship with sexual and gender minorities (SGM) remains limited. This dissertation aimed to investigate the relationship between RPG participation and indicators of mental health, social support, coping strategies, and minority stress among SGM individuals. Two studies were conducted. The first consisted of a scoping review that included six studies on RPGs and SGM and identified findings related to reductions in anxiety and depression symptoms, the development of resilience and coping skills, identity exploration and acceptance, and the strengthening of community bonds. The second study employed a cross-sectional and exploratory design, comparing 111 SGM participants, including 77 RPG players and 34 nonplayers. Depression, anxiety, and stress indicators, satisfaction with social support, coping strategies, and proximal stressors related to minority stress were assessed. The results indicated that RPG players had significantly lower mean levels of depression, anxiety, and stress compared to non-players, as well as lower internalized homonegativity. However, no statistically significant differences were observed in coping strategies, and RPG players reported lower satisfaction with social support, particularly in the dimensions of friendships and intimacy. Taken together, the findings from both studies suggest an association between RPG participation and lower indicators of psychological distress among SGM individuals, converging with findings identified in the literature. Nevertheless, the divergences observed regarding social support and coping strategies indicate that the mechanisms underlying this association remain poorly understood. Given the cross-sectional design of the empirical study, the results do not allow causal relationships to be established between RPG participation and the indicators investigated. Longitudinal studies and systematic interventions are recommended to investigate the mechanisms through which RPG participation may be associated with mental health and minority stress.