The Psychology of Griefing: Dark Play, Transgression, Complicity, and the Shadow Self in Video Games

Author:   Francois Lourhyel
Publisher:   Independently Published
ISBN:  

9798248060559


Pages:   70
Publication Date:   12 February 2026
Format:   Paperback
Availability:   Available To Order   Availability explained
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The Psychology of Griefing: Dark Play, Transgression, Complicity, and the Shadow Self in Video Games


Overview

Why do some players derive satisfaction from disrupting, deceiving, or emotionally destabilizing others in digital spaces? The Psychology of Griefing examines the phenomenon of ""Dark Play"" through the lenses of psychology, game studies, neurobiology, and sociology. Drawing exclusively on academic research, publicly available studies, and documented case analysis, Francois Lourhyel explores why certain players engage in griefing, trolling, betrayal, and transgressive behavior in video-game environments. This book analyzes: - The psychological traits associated with griefing behavior, including research on the Dark Tetrad - The emotional mechanics behind ""the lulz,"" schadenfreude, and detached amusement - Sandbox environments such as EVE Online and DayZ as laboratories of trust and betrayal - Narrative games like Spec Ops: The Line and Undertale that intentionally induce guilt and complicity - The neurobiological processing of virtual violence and moral disengagement - The broader cultural implications of gamified transgression Rather than framing Dark Play as pathology alone, this work situates it within broader human needs for experimentation, transgression, and boundary-testing. The book aims to provide a balanced, research-driven perspective on one of the most controversial and psychologically revealing aspects of digital play. This is an independent academic analysis and is not affiliated with any game publisher or developer.

Full Product Details

Author:   Francois Lourhyel
Publisher:   Independently Published
Imprint:   Independently Published
Dimensions:   Width: 15.20cm , Height: 0.40cm , Length: 22.90cm
Weight:   0.104kg
ISBN:  

9798248060559


Pages:   70
Publication Date:   12 February 2026
Audience:   General/trade ,  General
Format:   Paperback
Publisher's Status:   Active
Availability:   Available To Order   Availability explained
We have confirmation that this item is in stock with the supplier. It will be ordered in for you and dispatched immediately.

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