.         According to a 2023 survey from Morning Consult, 44% of male respondents identified themselves as “avid” sports fans, completely dwarfing the mere 15% of female respondents who answered likewise. Being an “avid” fan involves religiously watching every game, purchasing anything with your team’s logo, and posting about what your favorite athlete ate for breakfast that morning.

.         If these behaviors sound familiar, you may have seen similar patterns reflected in what are often dubbed “crazed” fangirls. Taylor Swift fans are known for their dedicated support of the singer, going to concerts, buying several versions of the same album, and playing her music any chance they get. Despite their similarities, the two groups are often polarized. Predominantly female interests are looked down upon as frivolous and eccentric. Girls who choose to indulge in these pastimes are labeled dumb and annoying as a result of obsessive behaviors often displayed by diehard fans on social media. 

.         Although male-dominated interests are often revered as cool, boys are just as capable of these behaviors. According to a study by David Amani for the Future Business Journal, sports fans who form a strong allegiance to a particular team often experience intense feelings of protectiveness, pride, and devotion to the brand (6). Arguably, the only difference between male sports fanatics and female music lovers is their choice of idol to worship. 

.         Furthermore, this sense of brand sacredness can develop into mob-like behavior. Although female fans have also been known to riot, male-dominated mob behavior is more common. For example, according to BBC, after their victory during the 2018 Super Bowl Final, an overwhelmingly male crowd of Philadelphia Eagles fans flooded the streets, looting, starting fires, and even flipping over cars.

.         Additionally, current research suggests a possible correlation between sports culture and increases in domestic abuse. According to a study by Kirby and Birdsall for the University of Lancaster, domestic violence and abuse cases in England increased by 38% when the national team lost a soccer match, and increased by 26% when they won or ended in a draw (3). It is not uncommon for adults to participate in excessive drinking while watching sports, causing individuals with already heightened emotions to become unstable and dangerous. This trait of increased substance use is far less present in female-dominated interests. 

.         So next time you feel like calling teenage girls annoying for crying over concert tickets, just remember that they could be worse.