Esport Social Capital: An Avenue to Develop Social Connection and Subjective Wellbeing

Abstract

Despite the growing interest in esport research, significant gaps remain in understanding the social and wellbeing benefits and outcomes of digital leisure activities. This study aims to adapt and validate the Club Social Capital Scale (CSCS) for esport contexts and explore the relationship between esport social capital, social connection, and subjective wellbeing. Respondents (n = 317) completed an online survey using the CSCS, Social Connection Scale–Revised (SCS-R), and a single-item measure of life satisfaction. Findings led to revisions of the CSCS for valid and reliable measurement. More ‘active’ participation types, like competitive esport and streaming, significantly predicted social capital, while ‘passive’ types of consumption such as recreational esport and spectating were not consistent predictors. Esport social capital showed significant relationships with social connection and subjective wellbeing, highlighting the importance of fostering social capital in digital leisure. Overall, this research supports how esport can cultivate meaningful relationships and enhance wellbeing outcomes.