Constancy as a distinguishing feature of football fans identity

Abstract

The subject of analysis is understanding possibility of the intended change of identity in football fans and non-fans, and relation of the above characteristics with self-esteem and gender parameters. The subjects were members (N = 50) and non-members (N = 50) of football fans clubs. Modified Kuhn–McPartland Twenty Statements Test and modified Bem Sex Role Inventory were used. The results showed that self-image was more tied in fans than in non-fans. Fans are less sure of possibility of the intended change of identity than non-fans. Evaluation of possibility of identity changes in fans is tied with self-esteem, masculinity and prevalence of personality categories over social ones. Non-fans do not show such ties. The identified features of football fans correspond with anti-Protean identity.