Abstract
Our aim is to compare comprehensive data on the engaged demographics of female-oriented male-male erotica in Anglophone regions and that of the greater China area. Our study constitutes the largest such data set in each region (Anglophone N = 1707; Chinese N = 1498). Data were analysed from our online Boys’ Love (BL) fandom survey: one version in English and an almost identical version in Chinese. We confirm that the engaged Anglophone demographic includes more men, people with a wider range of sexual orientations, lower proportion of heterosexual identification, and a wider and older age range. We provide greater detail than ever before and demonstrate engagement with BL by young straight men and questioning of sexual identity by female fans, at least in the Anglophone West. Finally, we provide novel evidence that a broad demographic of young people in the greater China area is familiar with BL as a casual interest in contrast to Anglophone regions where it is more of an intense and niche pass-time. We offer important insights into a global erotic entertainment by-and-for women which is influencing the mainstream but under increasing legislative scrutiny.
Highlights
Female-oriented male-male erotica is one of the largest by-and-for women sexual subcultures and a truly global phenomenon (Levi et al 2014)
The aim of our research is to collect and compare comprehensive data with regard to the demographics engaged with male-male erotica in Anglophone regions and that of the greater China area
We provide novel evidence that a broad demographic of young people in the greater China area is familiar with Boys’ Love (BL) as a casual interest in contrast to Anglophone regions where it is more of an intense and niche pass-time
Summary
Female-oriented male-male erotica is one of the largest by-and-for women sexual subcultures and a truly global phenomenon (Levi et al 2014). While the content focuses always on men in romantic and/or sexual relationships, the form varies and includes artwork, manga, novels, online instalments, live action serials, and film. Material is created by both amateurs and professionals, and is provided free and as a commercial enterprise. Female-oriented male-male erotica offers online and offline space (e.g., forums and conventions) in which fans can participate and co-create. Designations are many and include shonen-ai and yaoi (Japanese), slash (Anglophone), and danmei (Chinese). We use the umbrella term Boys’ Love (BL)
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