As video games continue to grow in popularity and revenue, many are surprised to learn that women’s jobs in computer game development have been steadily declining. Laine Nooney, a professor of media and communication at the University of Sydney, argues that this decline is due to a variety of factors, including gender bias and the male-dominated nature of the industry.
In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this trend and examine what can be done to encourage more women to enter and succeed in the field.
One of the main reasons for the decline in women’s jobs in computer game development is gender bias. Nooney argues that there are many subtle forms of discrimination that exist within the industry, which can discourage women from pursuing careers in gaming. For example, women may be passed over for promotions or not taken seriously by their colleagues, leading to a lack of support and opportunities for advancement.
This can create a hostile work environment that drives women away from the industry.
Another factor contributing to the decline in women’s jobs in computer game development is the male-dominated nature of the field. The gaming industry has traditionally been dominated by men, which means that there are few role models for women to look up to and few opportunities for mentorship.
This can make it difficult for women to break into the industry and succeed, as they may lack the support and guidance needed to navigate the challenges of game development.
Research has also shown that women tend to be less interested in certain types of games, such as first-person shooters and sports games, which are more commonly associated with men. This can make it difficult for women to find success in the gaming industry, as they may not have the same level of interest or expertise in these areas.
However, Nooney argues that this is not necessarily a reason for women’s decline in the industry, as there are many other types of games that women enjoy and excel at.
Despite these challenges, there are a number of steps that can be taken to encourage more women to enter and succeed in the field of computer game development.
One approach is to increase diversity within the industry itself, by actively recruiting women and creating mentorship programs to help them break into the field. This can help to create a more inclusive and supportive work environment for women, which can lead to increased participation and success.
Another important step is to promote the benefits of a diverse workforce in the gaming industry. Research has shown that companies with diverse teams tend to be more innovative and successful than those with homogenous teams. By highlighting the value of diversity in the gaming industry, we can help to create a culture that values and supports women’s contributions.
Finally, it is important to encourage women to pursue careers in game development from an early age. This can involve providing educational opportunities and resources to help young women develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the field. By fostering interest in game development at a young age, we can create a pipeline of talented women who are ready to take on leadership roles in the industry.
In conclusion, Laine Nooney’s research highlights the many factors that contribute to the decline in women’s jobs in computer game development. By addressing these challenges and promoting diversity within the industry, we can create a more inclusive and supportive work environment for women and encourage more women to pursue careers in gaming. As the gaming industry continues to grow, it is important to ensure that it remains diverse and inclusive, so that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
