National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) Practice Exam

Most video games typically employ which pattern of social interaction?

1. Intragroup

2. Multilateral

3. Interindividual

4. Extraindividual

The correct answer is: Extraindividual

The correct choice, which identifies the pattern of social interaction most commonly associated with video games, focuses on the concept of 'extraindividual' interaction. In this context, extraindividual interactions occur when a player engages with a game as a solo activity, typically focusing on the game mechanics, objectives, and experiences independently, without the direct involvement of other players in real-time gameplay. This pattern is prevalent in many single-player video games where the user interacts with computer-generated elements rather than with other human players. The gameplay is centered around the player's individual actions, decisions, and experiences, allowing for personal exploration and achievement within the game narrative or environment without the need for social engagement or competition at that moment. Additionally, while video games can include multiplayer and social components leading to other patterns of interaction, such as intragroup (within a specific social group), multilateral (with multiple individuals), or interindividual (between individual players), the essence of video gaming often starts fundamentally with an extraindividual focus — engaging with the game world as a solitary player. Thus, the nature of most video games aligns closely with extraindividual interaction as the primary mode of engagement.