Token team members

Tokenism may be particularly evident in works featuring a team, such as superhero teams or small crews going adventuring.

A token team member may be recognized by:

• the usual signs of tokenism
• Minor or underutilized skills or powers
• An evident function in characterization, plotting, or worldbuilding that comes out of the character's identity rather than other qualities unique to the character

For instance, Teela Brown in the Ringworld series by Larry Niven is a token female on the team; her "skill", such as it is, is her possible inborn trait of luckines; her role within characterization is to serve as love interest for the main character, reinforcing his heterosexuality and attractiveness.