Welcome

This website is where I will be documenting my research project:

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

This PhD project is being conducted via Curtin University of Technology Western Australia: Project Number 5251 Approval Number RDHU-17-15

My name is Emma, I have been involved in the Australian Goth scene since I was about thirteen. Now in my early 40s, I continue to be connected to Goth and consider it an integral component of my identity.

What does this mean?

Essentially – Goth is more than hairspray, crimpers and eyeliner…

My connection to the Goth culture has taken me all over the world following bands, visiting Goth events and places.

As Goths we can visit clubs, go to gigs or events (such as the Whitby Goth Weekend or Wave Gotik Treffen) and feel like we belong – sometimes without even talking to other attendees. We even have our own day! It is my belief this connectedness – this sense of place – benefits us in a variety of ways and is a key factor which supports the overall longevity of the subculture.

I am particularly interested what being a Goth means for those of us over forty – did people think it was Just a Phase (like your parents insisted) – how did Goth come to be part of your life and why is it important….

The Goth subculture is fascinating, it has endured for more than three decades after its first emergence in the late 1970s, and it continues to morph and transform. Over this time, Goth subculture has developed a mature sense of itself: it is aware of its own irony – of its very conformity as a group who proclaim individuality.

Goth has a sense of humour about itself – it is quite normal for Goths to insist I am not a Goth ( ….but we are).

I will use this site to write about various aspects of the Goth subculture and seek input from others. I will also publish links to surveys for those who wish to participate. By doing this, I hope to improve understanding of the subculture, to share thoughts and experiences with other Goths (and researchers) especially those, like me, who have continued to be involved with Goth well beyond youth!