Functions of Role-Playing Games

Sarah Lynne Bowman is an adjunct professor at the University of Texas at Dallas, Richland College, Ashford University, and Brookhaven College. Her current research focus emphasizes character development and social dynamics in role-playing games. She lives in Round Rock, Texas.

• Table of ContentsAcknowledgments     Preface      Introduction      1. Historical Evolution and Cultural Permutations      2. Role-Playing in Communal Contexts      3. Interactional Dynamics in Role-Playing Games      4. Role-Playing as Scenario Building and Problem Solving      5. Tactical and Social Problem Solving      6. Role-Playing as Alteration of Identity      7. Character Evolution and Types of Identity Alteration      Conclusion      Appendix: Interview Questionnaire      Chapter Notes      Bibliography      Index