Stan (devoted fan)
Overview
A stan refers to a fan with an extremely strong attachment and loyalty to a particular person, group, or piece of content. The word comes from the name of the obsessive fan in Eminem's 2000 song "Stan." It is also used as a verb for passionately supporting someone, as in "I stan X."
How stans relate to question boxes
When a question box owner gains stans, the amount and quality of questions may change. Some stans send questions often, share answers enthusiastically, and spread the word about the question box to other followers. Stans like these can also help make a question box more active.
On the other hand, because stans feel strongly about protecting their oshi (the favorite you passionately support), when a question critical of the owner arrives, they sometimes go after the sender. A sense of justice along the lines of "Don't send rude questions to my favorite" risks making other followers hold back and souring the mood of the question box.
Accepting stans' support while keeping your distance
Support from stans is genuinely welcome, but problems can sometimes arise if you get too close to particular stans. Stans who see themselves as "special fans" sometimes feel dissatisfied when they get the same treatment as other followers.
The way to deal with this is to stick to the principle of treating all followers equally. Don't give special treatment to particular senders, don't give your personal contact details to particular fans, and don't get involved in disputes between fans. While keeping to these principles, it's good to accept stans' support and keep a healthy distance.
Oshi-katsu and question boxes
In Japan, the phrase oshi-katsu (activities to support your favorite) is also widely used. Sending questions to your favorite's question box is enjoyed as part of oshi-katsu. Reading your favorite's answers, having your favorite answer your question, sharing that Q&A with other fans: these are all fulfilling oshi-katsu experiences.
As a question box owner, it is important to respect your fans' oshi-katsu while protecting your own boundaries. Pushing yourself too hard to meet fans' expectations may lead to question fatigue or burnout. Be grateful to have fans who support you, while keeping your own pace.