The mind games have already started: An in-depth examination of trash talking in Counter-Strike: Global Offensive esports using practice theory

Abstract

Trash talking is a contentious and prevalent practice in traditional sports but few studies have examined its practice in esports ‐ a computer-mediated form of sports competition in videogaming. This study used practice theory to identify different forms and dialectical relationships of trash talking in Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. Fifty hours of structured observations of professional tournaments were conducted followed by semi-structured interviews with fifteen spectators/casual gamers. Inductive analysis of data based on practice theory-related constructs identified varying perspectives on trash talk, and six distinct forms. Trash talk was directed towards players from opposing players, coaches, fans, casters and analysts. ‘Teabagging’ was the most controversial, but a predominantly positive ethos for trash talk was found, such that it was a distinct part of this esports scene. Theoretical and practice-oriented implications are discussed and a conceptualization of the practice of trash talk is given to encourage further debate and discussion in the field.

The AACTT of Trash Talk: Identifying Forms of Trash Talk in Esports Using Behavior Specification

“…This is also observed in other research where players defend the use of trash talk if it does not include sociocultural themes of racism, sexism, or homophobia (Hilvert-Bruce & Neill, 2020;Nakamura, 2012;Ortiz, 2019). In one of the few studies investigating trash talk in esports, preliminary insights by Irwin et al (2021) on how esport spectators observe the social norms of trash talk practice found that it was judged upon reflection of the context and motive of the act. However, understanding the boundaries to which specific behavior within the professional esports scene diverges from socially acceptable trash talk and unfair harassment has been limited.…”

“…Trash talking a target verbally is one of the most common forms of trash talk in literature (Conmy et al, 2013;McDermott & Lachlan, 2021) and, in this study, typically occurred in an In Real Life environment. For instance, LAN events are tournaments where players can be situated within the same physical setting-either on a stage in front of a crowd or in a studio on opposing sides of a room (Irwin et al, 2021;Taylor & Witkowski, 2010). In a studio where external sounds are limited, professional players can shout across the room toward their opponent.…”

“…Video games allow users to manipulate in-game mechanics to form unique practices. Previously, Irwin et al (2021) identified teabagging (the sexual act of using the in-game avatars crouchstand mechanic repeatedly over an eliminated opponent) as a virtual form of trash talk unique to esports. An example in the present study occurred when a target was eliminated.…”

“…Previous literature on trash talk refers to context as what is said and understood among consumers. Irwin et al (2021) identified that depending on the context, the perceptions, social norms, and acceptability of trash talk can alter. For example, light-hearted trash talk, otherwise known as banter, can be welcoming and encouraged within the community (Duncan, 2019;Wright et al, 2002).…”

“…In video gaming, Cook et al (2017) extends this notion and further classifies it as a type of trolling used to upset the player experience, while Hilvert-Bruce and Neill (2020) observe that trash talk can occur among teammates to attack a player's poor performance. However, Irwin et al (2021) concluded that there may also be forms of trash talk (i.e., specific behaviors) that have eluded our understanding in esports.…”