From Fandom to Fadeaway: Unpacking Factors Contributing to Anime Dropout

ABSTRACT This study explores a case of anime dropout/disengagement to understand media information users. Particularly, this study identifies elements in anime (e.g., Tropes ) that prevent audience from continue watching what they had started (i.e., dropout/disengagement). A content analysis of 226 posts from MyAnimeList.net , an online anime database and fan community, suggests that the major elements that motivate audience dropout are Plot/Narrative, Tropes , Artwork/Visual Style, Characters , and Mood . The expectation gap and sunk cost also contribute to disengagement. This study presents a way to enrich anime metadata through analyzing the identified elements. Additionally, this study suggests that understanding anime disengagement may contribute to the search and recommendation of anime.