Fantasy Themes and Shared Identity: A Symbolic Convergence Perspective of a Voluntary Team’s Culture

• In Event: So Far, So Good, Part 1: Organizational Communication Research Escalator

Abstract

Symbolic convergence theory (SCT) explains how shared fantasy themes and rhetorical visions within a group contribute to the formation of the group’s shared identity. SCT research has focused on group contexts, particularly in paid (rather than voluntary) organizations and settings. However, this study of fantasy themes and shared identity focuses on a unique organization: a voluntary club rugby team. Through ethnographic participant observation and interviews, the authors utilize a fantasy theme analysis to identify the ways in which fantasy themes are shared, contribute to identification and impact member participation.

Authors

• Alaina Zanin, University of Oklahoma

• Carrisa S Hoelscher, The University of Oklahoma