Published 2021-09-16
Abstract
This paper titled “The Therapeutic Dimensions of the Emerging Genre of Fanfiction” aims to undertake a psychotherapeutic inquiry into the process of writing fanfiction, in order to explore and synthesise the motivations and inspirations that prompt its writers. Also investigated is the impact of such writing on the life of its writers. The emerged ideas reveal as to how the practitioners of fanfiction use their craft as a means to overcome the hurdles and obstacles of life. For its writers, fanfiction may be identified as a way to unveil the hidden aspects of their self and artistically express their personality. It may also serve as a vehicle for psychological sublimation and escapism. By understanding the internal struggles and mental turmoil of the writers of fanfiction, we gain insightful glimpses into the creative generation of fanfiction for attaining sublimation and bridle excruciating mental agony. The inventive and imaginary nuances of fanfiction also enable the writers and readers to escape into a fascinating world devoid of grievances and hardships. Being a process orientated than an outcome based creative outlet, the numerous uncharted terrains of the emerging genre of fanfiction may, thus, be unravelled when analysed through the framework of psychotherapeutics.