yeah, this seems to be based on self-assessments, so indie fans could just be more self-critical of their work ethic and gentleness. isn't self-deprecation kind of a common theme of indie rock? personally, most people who know me seem to think I'm really nice and gentle because that's how I superficially act, but being privy to my inner thoughts I know I'm actually a major-league asshole. were I less self-aware and more prone to cognitive dissonance, however, I might internalize their compliments and become one of those guys who creepily hangs around women and whines about nice guys not getting laid, etc.