Communication Styles and Interpersonal Communications of Mobile Legends Bang-Bang (MLBB) Players

Abstract

This study explored the Mobile Legends Bang-Bang (MLBB) players’ dominant communication styles and how their participation in this online game contributed to their interpersonal communications. The researchers utilized a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire based on Bourne’s (1995) Communication Styles and an open-ended questionnaire that elicited qualitative responses from the 30 respondents for the players’ interpersonal communications within family interactions. Data reveal that MLBB players often utilize the Aggressive Communication Style, given the nature of the game that involves competitiveness and quick decision making in order to win. In addition, Passive-Aggressive and Assertive Communication came close as other dominant styles since players could also be subtle in their aggression and at the same time positively straightforward in their communication to support or lead team members in defeating the game opponents. Data also show as revealed by the players’ siblings that the Interpersonal Communications of the MLBB players might have been strengthened in terms of displaying assertiveness, clarity and directness in communicating their thoughts and feelings to the family members. On the other hand MLBB engagements might also have weakened interpersonal communications as some of these players demonstrate aggressiveness which could include the use of harsh words in interacting with their siblings on certain occasions.