The Love to Hate Taylor: A framing of the dynamics of dislike and toxic practices in anti-fandom culture surrounding Taylor Swift
2024 (English)Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (Two Years)), 20 credits / 30 HE credits
Student thesis
Abstract [en]
This thesis explores the understudied phenomenon of anti-fandom culture in the digital age, focusing on how anti-fan communities targeting media figures manifest on social media platforms. By analysing online interactions and community dynamics, the research uncovers dimensions of negativity and toxicity, emphasising the toxic practices displayed by anti-fans. Additionally, the thesis examines parasocial interactions within anti-fandom culture, contributing to the understanding of parasocial dynamics on social media. Employing a qualitative research approach, the study uses content analysis with framing analysis to explore the complexities of anti-fandom culture online. Posts and comments from one anti-fan Facebook group were framed and analysed using a coding scheme, allowing for a detailed depiction of anti-fan culture formation. Findings reveal that anti-fans reinforce negativity through echo chambers on social media, where critical comments and toxic content fuel a cycle of dislike. Anti-fans voice grievances and construct a shared narrative of antipathy toward celebrities, often escalating into personal attacks or attempts to delegitimise their targets. Key practices include highlighting faults in media portrayals and spreading anti-fan creations. Anti-fans frame their negativity as justified criticism or holding celebrities to higher standards, highlighting the complex dynamics of anti-fandom in the digital age.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
2024. , p. 81
Keywords [en]
anti-fandom, anti-fans, fan studies, participatory culture, parasocial interactions and relationships, media practice, social media logic, facebook, hate-consuming
National Category
Media and Communications
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:sh:diva-54610OAI: oai:DiVA.org:sh-54610DiVA, id: diva2:1891660
Subject / course
Media and Communication Studies
Supervisors
Examiners
2024-09-172024-08-222025-10-07Bibliographically approved