Costumes, Connections, and Community: An In-depth Exploration of the Dynamics Within the Cosplaying Community
Document Types
Paper Presentation
School Name
Berkeley School, Inc.
Track or Strand
Humanities and Social Science (HUMSS)
Research Advisor (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)
Astudillo, Alfonso III B.
Start Date
25-6-2025 10:30 AM
End Date
25-6-2025 12:00 PM
Zoom Link/ Room Assignment
https://zoom.us/j/98424473252?pwd=FwXRu0YCoemsGlIoz7ItYRGwViiW46.1 Meeting ID: 984 2447 3252 Passcode: 483035
Abstract/Executive Summary
Cosplay is a fun way to express oneself through costumes and roleplay that has given rise to a vibrant global community. While various studies have explored certain elements of this phenomenon, the cosplay community remains partially unexplored. This research aims to further investigate the dynamics of the cosplay community, providing meaningful insights into the identity processes, motivations, sense of belonging, and creativity that define it. Using in-depth interviews and online questionnaires, the research examines how cosplayers interact with community-building, creativity, identity, and self-expression. Findings reveal that cosplayers actively engage with these aspects as they inspire, interact, and guide others, fostering inclusivity, shared cultures, and personal growth. This enables individuals to explore and express themselves and their identities while contributing to a supportive and evolving community. From simple roleplay to community-driven events, this growing social activity serves as both a social and personal journey of self-discovery and self-development.
Keywords
cosplay; dynamics; identity negotiation; personal growth; sense of belonging
Research Theme (for Paper Presentation and Poster Presentation submissions only)
Living Culture and Contemporary Societies (LCS)
Initial Consent for Publication
yes
Statement of Originality
yes
Costumes, Connections, and Community: An In-depth Exploration of the Dynamics Within the Cosplaying Community
Cosplay is a fun way to express oneself through costumes and roleplay that has given rise to a vibrant global community. While various studies have explored certain elements of this phenomenon, the cosplay community remains partially unexplored. This research aims to further investigate the dynamics of the cosplay community, providing meaningful insights into the identity processes, motivations, sense of belonging, and creativity that define it. Using in-depth interviews and online questionnaires, the research examines how cosplayers interact with community-building, creativity, identity, and self-expression. Findings reveal that cosplayers actively engage with these aspects as they inspire, interact, and guide others, fostering inclusivity, shared cultures, and personal growth. This enables individuals to explore and express themselves and their identities while contributing to a supportive and evolving community. From simple roleplay to community-driven events, this growing social activity serves as both a social and personal journey of self-discovery and self-development.
https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/conf_shsrescon/2025/paper_lcs/6
