Furry Community: Comprises diverse individuals, including fans, artists, writers, gamers, and role players.
Anthropomorphized Characters: Most furries create a 'fursona', an anthropomorphized animal character used as an avatar within the community.
Costumes and Representation: Some furries wear costumes (fursuits) or accessories such as animal ears/tails, and participate in online communities like Second Life.
The Furry Fandom
Global Presence: The furry fandom is worldwide, with numerous local groups and annual conventions.
Therians and Otherkin: A subset (~10%) believe in spiritual connections to animals or mythical beings.
Demographics
Age and Identity: Over 75% are under 25 years old. Gender breakdown: 84% male, 13% female, 2.5% transgender. Predominantly (83.2%) white.
Sexual Orientation: About one-third identify as exclusively heterosexual; higher likelihood of homosexual identification compared to the general population.
Education: Nearly 60% engaged in post-secondary education.
Misconceptions and Stigma
Stereotypes: Many negative stereotypes are unsubstantiated.
Bullying: Furries report higher rates of physical/verbal bullying, especially during adolescence.
Secrecy: Many furries keep their interests private from family and daily acquaintances due to societal prejudice.
Social and Psychological Impact
Therapy and Counseling: Furries often face misunderstanding from therapists.
Community Benefits: Participation in the fandom is linked to higher self-esteem and life satisfaction.
Furry Fandom as a Positive Influence
Belongingness and Creativity: The community offers a sense of belonging, recreation, and creativity.
Global Citizenship: Encourages environmental concerns and diversity appreciation.
Idealized Self: Many furries create idealized versions of themselves, leading to improved self-esteem and life satisfaction.
Fantasy and Reality: Furries use fantasy positively for creativity and social interaction, not as pathological escapism.
Additional Resources
Books and Research: "A Decade of Psychological Research on the Furry Fandom" is available as a free download or for purchase.
Research and Articles: Additional research findings and publications available on Furscience.
Media Appearances: Furscience members appear in podcasts and news segments to educate about furries.
Conclusion
Ongoing Research: Continues to investigate the psychological and social aspects of the furry fandom.
Educational Outreach: Ongoing efforts to debunk myths and educate the public about the furry community.