本研究旨在探討Cosplay中的反串行為與性別認同。援引文本盜獵(textual poaching)與性別展演(gender performance)的觀點,本研究嘗試提問的是:Cospaly中的反串行為究竟是種暫時性的性別踰越,或是具有鬆動主流性類目的政治意涵?透過半結構式的深度訪談,本研究發現,Cosplay玩家的反串行為必須服膺於一套團體內部的性別規範。這套性別規範雖然與主流社會的性別價值觀並無本質上的差異,但是反串行為所營造的虛擬空間在(男性)玩家於實體世界形塑多元性別認同上,仍扮演著重要的角色。基於研究發現,本研究進一步指出,Cosplay中反串行為的性別政治意涵,有待後續研究持續探索與評估。
This present study explores transvestitism and gender identification in cosplay behaviors. Drawing on the perspectives of textual poaching and gender performance, it asks whether transvestitism merely a temporary gender transgression, or a specific tactics aiming to dismantle the compulsory categorization of sex inherent in the gendered socio-culture. Based on semi-structured interviews, the author finds cosplay transvestites have to follow in-group rules which tend to echo mainstream gender values. The imaginary space deriving from transvestitism, however, does play an important role in the process of (male) cosplay transvestites' gender identification, as multiple or flexible gender values could be encouraged and introduced in real life. As conclusion, the author suggests further examination for probing the degree to which gender politics is implied in cosplay behaviors.