Don’t Mess with My Happy Place: Understanding Misogyny in Fandom Communities

Pop culture genres and fandoms are booming in popularity, aided by social media and comic con fan events. From Harry Potter to Doctor Who and Star Wars, an increasingly diverse group of fans are able to connect, collaborate, and celebrate their favorite fandoms. With an increase in participation, however, comes an increase in tensions within communities traditionally dominated by men. Given previous research and events where men within fandoms rejected the influx of female fans, the current project explores how misogyny impacts participation and enjoyment of fan culture. This study collected qualitative responses from fandom participants at a large fan event (comic con). Participants were asked about fandom activities and the presence of misogyny within their communities. Findings suggest, in line with previous research on geek culture misogyny, that women are still regarded as second-tier fans. Women are regularly viewed as neither committed nor knowledgeable enough to participate in fandom culture. Moreover, women are often objectified and harassed in social media fandom spaces. Reasons for fandom misogyny as well as improvements to inspire more tolerant and inclusive fandom communities are discussed.