Table 1 Preliminary version of the Strat-I-Com questionnaire with scale reliabilities (Study 1)

Recruitment

My guild actively searches for new members.

0.71

We involve new members only after a ritual that is well known and practiced in our guild.

To enter our guild, new players must be selected.

I require new players to perform successfully before they get integrated into the guild.

Knowledge assessment

I expect a performance boost from new players.

0.86

I expect other players to keep up with the necessary background knowledge.

New members are put to trial with respect to their game skills.

I observe new players’ knowledge and skill acquisition.

Negative welcoming

New members must successfully complete a difficult ritual in order to enter our guild.

0.77

Experienced guild members are skeptical about new members.

Players who do not fit the guild are rejected on the spot.

New players often receive harsh treatment and stinging rebukes.

In conflict situations, new players have fewer rights than older ones.

Modeling

I often act as an example to new players.

0.70

In the presence of new players, I strictly observe the guild rules.

My behavior is meant to show new players how to properly interact with each other.

In our guild, appropriate behavior is being explained and demonstrated to new players.

Consistent Training

Increasing performance in the guild is most important to me.

0.72

Proper attendance of other guild members to guild events is important to me.

Periodical training and performance exercises are indispensable for guild success.

Agreements within the guild are absolutely necessary.