poser

Sometimes spelled "poseur," a poser is someone who attempts to assimilate themselves into a particular group with the intent to be accepted, usually on a very superficial level. Often the individual has little knowledge of the group and may adjust their physical appearance, attitude, and philosophies accordingly, and use other tactics to convince members of the group into thinking that they are legitmate. Posers are generally of adolescent age, and usually outgrow this behavior in their adult years. Posers are found in every sub-culture, although they are commonly referenced within the punk, gothic and metal communities. Some bands are seen as "posers" due to their extremely commercial, accessible appeal, giving the impression that they are concerned with popularity and not musical creativity. The term is often incorrectly used to refer to someone who listens to popular music or is otherwise interested in popular social trends; it is not unless this person claims to be part of something while having no real familiarity with it that they should be labeled as such.