The Construction of Identity in the Case of Tumblr TV Fandom

Contrary to popular perception, fans are groups of people that want proper representation, often seek to serve a social cause, and undoubtedly like to feel part of a community where they can freely express themselves, communicate with like-minded individuals and even pursue social change. This study argues on behalf of fans that they find and construct their identity through their fandom, even if this is not the sole and most determinant factor for their fan activities. Furthermore, it argues that social media allow them to express through their fan attribute constantly, freely and elaborate. It explores and tests two research hypotheses: 1) The assumption that both the original media text and the dynamics of online fandom influence the formation of a fan-based social identity, which as such is part of their personal identity of fans; and 2) The observation that the main manifestation of fan identity is an advanced or augmented image of fan fiction activity, empowered by platforms, like Tumblr.