The Noble Sports Fan

Abstract

This paper presents a sociological analysis of the sport follower role. Topics covered include socialization into the sport fan role; the beneficial consequences of sport spectating, both for the individual and society; and a discussion of the traditional criticisms of sport spectating. The position taken is that following sport is a worthwhile leisure pursuit that enhances an individual's quality of life and has a cohesive effect on society.

Consumer in Sports: Fan typology analysis

“…It has been argued that identification with sport teams may serve to replace traditional but declining social ties such as religion and the family (Branscombe and Wann 1991;Melnick 1993;Putnam 1995, Melnick andWann 2011). Social connections resulting from sport identification may prove beneficial to ones psychological health by serving as a buffer against depression and alienation while increasing self-esteem (Pan et al 1997;Smith 1988Smith , 1989Zillman et al 1989;Keaton and Gearhart 2014).…”

Exploring motivations, constraints, and perceptions toward sport consumers' smartphone usage.

“…Among the entertainment sources that are available, sport is considered unique as sport fans are emotionally attached to their favorite teams or sport (Smith, 1988). One of the primary reasons for such attachment derives from one's self-concept in identifying themselves as a sport fan.…”

Fan-family conflict : an examination of inter-role conflict between sport fan and family roles.

“…The depictions of sport fans offered by McPherson (1975), Smith (1988), Hirt et al (1992), and Wann e:t al. (2001) are critical in that they speak to the notion that fandom extends beyond observable consumptive behaviors.…”

“…On the other end, lie highly identified, dysfunctional fans, who have become so involved with their role as a fan, they struggle to fulfill demands associated with alternative roles such as those related to job or family (Hunt et aI., 1999). To that point, Smith (1988) noted, "there are gradations of being a sports fan, ranging all the way from minimal interest to addiction" (p. 55). The extent to which an individual conforms to behaviors consistent with hislher group memberships is a direct reflection of the centrality of that group to his/her self-concept (Turner, 1982).Within sport marketing and sport sociology literature, the construct of fan identification has emerged as an important variable in understanding the affective, behavioral, and cognitive differences among sport fans.…”

“…Consuming sport is supposed to be fun, an activity in which we participate for leisure. Smith (1988) argued however, the line separating the sport fan role as a healthy habit and an addictive activity is somewhat fuzzy. According to Hunt, Bristol, and Bashaw (1999), one's fandom becomes dysfunctional when fan role demands "interfere with the ability to perform normal role behavior outside of the behavior as a fan" (p. 447).…”