Defining the Furry Fandom

Abstract

A qualitative approach was used to overview the “Furry fandom”. A literature review accompanied by information from Furry primary documents was used to define this fandom and then classify it as a unique subculture. Subsequently, a thematic and content analysis of 19 randomly selected Furry short stories was performed in order to identify the fandom’s prominent group perceptions and symbols. Two primary conflicts were noted as central to the Furry fandom 's collective perceptions, "rejection and acceptance" and "society and self." Independent raters supported the existence of these found conflicts within the fandom's literature. A variety of written and numerical data from Furry websites was then used to demonstrate these conflicts' salience within the fandom's mindset. Finally, a variety of Furry symbols were declared and defined as interpreted from the subculture's slang and fiction works. This study forms a foundation useful for further research on the Furry fandom. Studying the Furry fandom is valuable for better understanding the internet’s role in 21st century community development, sustainability, and change.

Notes

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Thesis Completion

2006

Semester

Fall

Advisor

Lavooy, Maria J.

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Sciences

Degree Program

Psychology

Subjects

Dissertations, Academic -- Sciences; Sciences -- Dissertations, Academic; Anthropomorphism; Fans (Persons); Internet -- Social aspects; Subculture

Format

Print

Identifier

DP0022075

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Document Type

Honors in the Major Thesis

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