Semester

Spring

Date of Graduation

2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MS

College

Reed College of Media

Department

Reed College of Media

Committee Chair

Geah Pressgrove

Committee Member

Julia Fraustino

Committee Member

Elizabeth Oppe

Committee Member

Brian Donovan

Abstract

Pop powerhouse Taylor Swift has managed to create a dedicated fanbase that has the power to disrupt national sporting leagues and boost the American economy. Her Swifties are an exemplar in the world of fandom. Taylor Swift’s online interactions with fans, especially in the early days of her career, are partially responsible for her success in creating and maintaining this fanbase. Using principles of social informational processing theory (SIPT), this research examines what aspects of Taylor Swift’s computer-mediated communication with fans have fostered such intense feelings of community in her fandom of Swifties. Using in-depth interviews to explore the relationships formed between fans online themes of positivity, relatability and a genuine love for Swift’s music emerged. Additionally, mixed feelings on the use of online communication were present, but overall online spaces function as a positive meeting grounds for fans. The insights gained from this research informed best practices for communication professionals attempting to communicate with consumers (fans) online.

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