#Japan #Tokyo #Affiliate Program #Oshi-Katsu #Emotional Damage

The Hidden Struggles of 'Oshi-Katsu'

Supporting idols, actors, and anime characters—known as 'oshi-katsu'—has emerged as a popular pastime, especially among younger generations. While these activities bring joy and purpose to many, they can also have unexpected negative impacts on mental health and finances. A recent survey conducted by For-It Co., Ltd., which manages the affiliate platform 'afb', sheds light on these issues.

Survey Background

The survey involved 500 individuals aged between 20 and 69 across Japan who have participated in 'oshi-katsu'. Its aim was to understand the drawbacks associated with this increasingly popular support culture. Respondents indicated a range of negative influences, showcasing the complexities of managing enthusiasm and fandom.

Overview of the Survey

• - Participants: 500 individuals who answered affirmatively to engaging in 'oshi-katsu'
• - Demographics: Varied age groups, from 20s to 60s
• - Methodology: Online research
• - Date of Survey: June 19, 2025

Key Findings

When asked about the negative impacts they experienced from 'oshi-katsu', the most common response (45.2%) was the excessive spending. This was followed by 31.6% reporting issues with time management, and 15.6% stating emotional distress related to their beloved idols’ controversies or inactivity.

Emotional Strain Among Young Adults

Notably, the emotional toll can be particularly intense for those in their 20s. This group showed a considerable inclination to feel distressed during their idols' downtime or scandals, feeling guilty for not participating enough, and showing reluctance to engage in real-world relationships. This tendency is potentially tied to their stage of life, where identity is still forming, leading to deeper emotional investments in their favorites.

As social media users, young fans often find themselves more empathetic and connected to their idol's community, heightening their emotional responses to conflicts or controversies within their fandoms.

Financial Insights for Unmarried Fans

Further dissecting the data, unmarried respondents indicated a higher prevalence of financial strain, with 50.4% admitting overspending compared to 39.1% of married individuals. The discretionary income available to singles often translates to heightened expenditures on events, merchandise, and other engagement activities.

The Challenges Faced by Students and Part-Timers

When analyzed by occupation, students and part-time workers exhibited a greater acknowledgment of overspending, likely due to their lower incomes. Despite potentially spending less overall, the ratio of their expenses to their income underscores increased financial anxiety regarding their 'oshi-katsu' activities. Interestingly, students living at home may also find themselves spending more on hobbies due to less financial oversight.

Balancing the Enjoyment

Ultimately, while 'oshi-katsu' can significantly enrich daily life, maintaining a healthy balance is crucial. It is advisable for fans to periodically reassess their spending habits and emotional investment in their pastimes to foster a sustainable way to enjoy these activities. By ensuring that finances, time management, and mental health are in check, fans can continue enjoying their beloved idols without detriment.

Taking time to reflect and adjust helps maintain the joy of 'oshi-katsu' amidst the challenges it may bring.

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About For-It Co., Ltd.

For-It Co., Ltd. operates the 'afb' affiliate marketing platform. With recognition for high partner satisfaction and extensive operational history, it supports data-driven marketing, adhering to industry standards. The company aims to enhance the affiliate marketing landscape and deliver cutting-edge insights to partners and clients alike.