Young Students’ Views of Idols' Romances : Differences between AKB48 and Sakamichi Group Fans

Abstract

This study examines young students’ views of idols’ romances. Statistical analysis of data collected from 171 university students reveals that the Sakamichi group is more popular among students than the AKB48 group; students tend to require idols to have comprehensive features and accept idols’ past romances. They also consider many idols to have a secret significant other and are not opposed to them concealing the secret. Regression analysis also finds that fans of the Sakamichi group, particularly those of Nogizaka46, show a tendency for romantic fixation on a particular member, and female students have a more realistic view of idols’ romances.