Just a Phase? Goth Subculture as an identity constant beyond youth

Abstract

This research examines the global phenomenon of Goth subculture. It engages with long-term participants in the Goth community to quantify Goth identity characteristics, underpinned by the questions: is Goth just a phase, what is Goth and what is the nature of Gothness. I propose Goth is a Socio-Aesthetic Framework around which identity is intentionally formed, maintained and evolved. To test this I investigate the nature of Goth identity and how it is sustained beyond youth.