Teenagers, Fandom and Identity

Abstract

This paper analyses collective and individual identity construction processes in adolescent fan communities mediated by multimodal discourse. Our approach is supported by ethnographic work with teenage girls belonging to music communities built around One Direction and Justin Bieber, and rooted in participant observation. Firstly, we will show how participating in communities of practice, undertaking tasks which give meaning to group activities, contributes to the construction of a social and cultural identity supported by the interpretation, production and dissemination of texts. Secondly, we will examine how subjective and personal identities related to feelings, emotions and situations of support are also built by the fan community.