By: Su Ying
Cosplay has become a popular subculture among teenagers and is prevalent in Hong Kong, yet it is subject to misconceptions and prejudices. The imagined identities formed through cosplay can contribute to the formation of preferred identities. Cosplay can facilitate self-exploration, expression, social connection and the active construction of identity. I employed a narrative approach to explore the meanings of cosplay in young people’s lives. In conversations with Julia, a secondary student, we made links between the “imaginary self” she constructed through cosplay and her skills, hopes and intentions in life. Our conversations provided the basis for a series of questions that can be used with other young people who are interested in cosplay. Julia was supported to document her story of using cosplay to support preferred directions in life. This facilitated connection with other young people, who were invited to respond as outsider witnesses. It also allowed Julia to challenge some misunderstandings and stereotypes about cosplayers, fostering new understandings for teachers and others working with young people.
Key words: cosplay; Hong Kong; subculture; youth; double story; therapeutic documents; outsider witnesses; narrative therapy; narrative practice
Su, Y. (2026). Exploring the meaning of cosplay for adolescents: A narrative approach. International Journal of Narrative Therapy and Community Work, (1), 87–96. https://doi.org/10.4320/NSXR9643