Publication Date

2010

Document Type

Masters Thesis

Department

School for Social Work

Keywords

Groupies-Psychology, Women-Psychology, Folk-rock music, Music-Psychological aspects, Feminist theory, Identity development, Female identity development, Emotional effects of music

Abstract

This study investigated the experiences, motivations, and perceptions of groupies in folk rock music culture. Through qualitatively collected data, it explored the phenomenological impacts of women following male folk rock musicians. It brought to light women's perspectives on their roles as groupies, and what their family backgrounds and earlier experiences in relationships looked like. It also explored how their experiences with folk rock music affected or influenced their emotional states. Females who self-identified as women in folk rock music culture ranging in ages from 18-35 were recruited from the Northampton and Boston area in Massachusetts. Eight women in folk rock music culture, ages 25-35, participated in this study. In face-to-face interviews they were asked a series of questions focused on the following themes: Introductory Narrative, Feminist Ideas/Theories, and Identity/Intimacy Experiences. Participants had multiple subjective definitions of what it means to be a groupie. Many participants experienced a sense of warmth and connectedness within the folk rock community, revealing elements of spirituality evident in their devotion to folk rock bands.

Language

English

Comments

iii, 54 p. : col. ill. Thesis (M.S.W.)-Smith College School for Social Work, Northampton, Mass., 2010. Includes bibliographical references (p. 45-46)

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