Abstract
Playing with Insecurity: A Qualitative Study of Dread Game Tactics and Perceived Consequences
Jennifer Evans, PhD, MEd, MCHES, CPH, PNAP1, Katia Villafane2, Caitlin Laska3, Ashleigh Shields, PhD, MPH, PNAP4, Jeannie Correa5 and Julianna Bara6
(1)Northeastern University, Boston, MA, (2)Northeastern University, BOSTON, MA, (3)Acton, MA, (4)Roslindale, MA, (5)Hunter College, Long Island, NY, (6)Fairfield University, Fairfield, CT
APHA 2025 Annual Meeting and Expo
Intimate partner violence (IPV), disproportionately experienced by women, can include a wide range of abuse, including emotional and psychological. Dating practices of “Dark Triad” men (i.e., narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy) in online “Red Pill” communities have become more popular. They discuss supposed hidden truths, usually about relationships and gender dynamics. These online communities are connected to the “manosphere,” which is rooted in antifeminist views and endorses manipulation tactics to build relationships with women. One tactic discussed in these online communities is Dread Game, which is a form of psychological manipulation where one partner uses emotionally and psychologically abusive tactics to cause the other partner distress so they will be more inclined not to leave the relationship. While much is known about different forms of manipulation in IPV relationships, there is a lack of information on how “Red Pill” communities and tactics like Dread Game occur. This study examines how Dread Game is discussed on Reddit. A content analysis was conducted on comments in two Reddit posts in r/exredpill and r/purplepilldebate to identify themes of 1) The Definition and Purpose of Dread Game, 2) Ethical and Psychological Implications, 3) Effectiveness and Consequences, and 4) Targeting Vulnerabilities. Overall, users question its effectiveness in relationships and discuss its psychological impact on women. The findings of this study can be used to modify or develop public health interventions to understand unhealthy relationship dynamics, promote emotional and mental health in intimate relationships, and understand how IPV tactics are discussed in online communities.
Communication and informatics Public health or related research Social and behavioral sciences