Parasocial Relationship Definition

Parasocial relationships (PSRs) represent a fascinating and increasingly relevant aspect of human interaction in the digital age. At their core, PSRs are one-sided relationships or emotional attachments individuals form with media personalities, fictional characters, or public figures, often formed from television, social media, or other digital platforms. Unlike traditional relationships, PSRs only go one direction; the emotional investment and sense of connection are experienced only by the viewer or follower. In today’s world, where social media and online content play a significant role in daily life, PSRs are becoming more common and complex. The rise of influencer culture, the availability of celebrities through social media, and the immersive method of modern storytelling have all contributed to the intensification of these unique bonds.

Parasocial relationship definition in an era of mass communication

A parasocial relationship, unlike a traditional social relationship, involves a one-sided parasocial interaction where an individual feels a connection to a media personality despite the absence of face-to-face contact.

Parasocial relationship definition and conception

Celebrity fascinations are not a new phenomenon. The parasocial relationship was first conceptualized in the 1950s by social scientists Donald Horton and R. Richard Wohl. They shed light on the phenomenon within the realm of television, observing how viewers formed what seemed like personal, yet distinctly one-sided, parasocial relationships with TV characters or performers. At their core, parasocial relationships are one-directional emotional attachments where a person experiences a connection to a media figure or fictional character without any reciprocal interaction. This is in stark contrast to real-life relationships, which are founded on mutual communication and emotional exchange. In these parasocial interactions, the bond exists only in the individual’s perception. 

Public figures and fictional characters

In the modern media landscape, a parasocial relationship can take various forms, not only with TV characters but also with celebrities and social media influencers. For example, a viewer may form parasocial relationships with a character from a beloved TV series and emotionally discuss their experiences. Similarly, parasocial relationships form between followers and social media influencers, where followers sense a closeness and familiarity with public figures despite the lack of direct interaction. While different from real-life relationships, these digital parasocial interactions and online communities that are often built around them may fulfill specific emotional and psychological needs.

Parasocial relationships psychology

The formation of parasocial relationships can be better understood through some psychological theories. For example, attachment theory could offer a perspective on how individuals form emotional bonds with media figures as substitutes for real-life attachments. This theory suggests that people may seek comfort, stability, or a sense of belonging through these one-sided relationships, the same way they would through traditional attachments. Social identity theory could also play a role, suggesting that individuals may engage in PSRs to enhance their self-identity and sense of belonging to a group, even if that group is centered around a media figure. 

Parasocial relationship and different personality types

Personality traits can significantly influence the likelihood of creating parasocial relationships. Introverted individuals who find social interactions draining may find solace in parasocial relationships, which are less demanding. Similarly, loneliness can be a driving factor, with parasocial relationships providing a sense of companionship and emotional connection in the absence of physical social relationships with friends or family members. Melissa Gentry, Psy.D., a clinical psychologist, says that consistent exposure to media figures that have similarities in values, experiences, or beliefs could foster identification and emotional attachment.

How parasocial relationships make us feel

The emotional and cognitive aspects of parasocial relationships can be intricate. Emotionally, these relationships can evoke feelings of joy, sadness, or empathy, mirroring responses from real-life relationships. Mentally, most people engaged in parasocial relationships often indulge in deep thinking about the media figure and construct detailed narratives and scenarios in their minds. This mental involvement is key to understanding the depth and impact of PSRs because it goes beyond admiration and includes a complex web of emotional and mental engagement.

Dynamics of parasocial interactions in pop culture and social media

The dynamics of parasocial relationships change and evolve over time, often influenced significantly by the media through which they are formed and sustained. These relationships may start casually as individuals consume media content like television shows, social media posts, live streams, or video games. Over time, as individuals engage more deeply with the content and its creators, these relationships can develop into more intense emotional investments. This bond is often characterized by increased time spent consuming related media, thinking about the media figure, and experiencing stronger emotional reactions to their experiences.

How social media relationships impact us

Social media has transformed the nature of parasocial relationships, creating an illusion of reciprocated interaction with media users. Media personalities actively engage with their audience on mass communication platforms like Instagram, Twitch, YouTube, and others, responding to comments and providing personal details—allowing users a more intimate look into the celebrity’s life. This interaction gives followers a sense of a two-way relationship, though it remains fundamentally one-sided for the media user. The content creators may not know their followers personally, but repeated exposure to their responses and engagement methods can deepen the emotional investment of the followers and enhance the perceived intimacy of the bond. This modern version of a parasocial relationship has a significant impact on the blurring of lines between reality and perception, making them a complex and evolving aspect of the digital media culture.

Parasocial relationships & mental health

Media psychology has increasingly focused on the impact of parasocial relationships on mental health, revealing a spectrum of both positive and negative effects. On the positive side, with healthy boundaries parasocial relationships offer a sense of companionship and social support that can be particularly beneficial for individuals who might feel isolated or alone. The bond formed with public figures can provide a perception of connection and understanding, fulfilling emotional needs in a way that real-life interactions sometimes cannot. Additionally, these relationships can be educational, as viewers often learn from the experiences and perspectives portrayed by characters or influencers, leading to personal growth and insight. 

What the research says

However, parasocial relationships can also have detrimental impacts, especially when they lead to unrealistic expectations about real life friends, relationships, or life in general. Forbes publised other research, citing a 2018 study that found that social comparison may diminish overall happiness or life satisfaction, and the use of certain social media platforms was positively associated with social comparison and the belief that other people's lives are better than our own. A concern with parasocial relationships is that social media users might neglect their real-life social network, preferring the simplicity and comfort of a parasocial interaction over the complexities and challenges of real relationships. The neglect can intensify senses of loneliness and disconnection from the real world. Additionally, intense parasocial relationships can potentially worsen pre-existing mental health issues, especially if those form a major part of their social life. 

Online therapy for unpacking parasocial relationships

Online therapy on platforms like BetterHelp could be beneficial in addressing issues related to parasocial relationships. For individuals who might be struggling with the intensity of their PSR or its impact on their real-life relationships with family and friends, online therapy offers a convenient and available platform for professional guidance and support. This version of therapy is especially relevant for those who formed strong attachments through digital means because it aligns with their comfort in engaging through online platforms. The familiarity of communicating with a mental health professional through digital channels can ease the process of opening up and discussing sensitive topics related to their parasocial relationships. Additionally, online therapy provides a level of flexibility that may be appealing to individuals who are more introverted or have formed parasocial relationships due to loneliness or social anxiety. This can encourage more open dialogue about their experiences and feelings, offering a better understanding of their emotional needs and ways to achieve healthier relationship dynamics.

Effectiveness of online therapy 

When it comes to managing parasocial relationships and associated social anxiety, online therapy can be beneficial. One study found that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in digital applications has become an established method for treating social anxiety disorder (SAD) and highlighted the potential benefits of online therapy in a larger context. This can be especially relevant for individuals experiencing parasocial relationships, as online therapy can align with a preference for digital communication. Innovative approaches, including text-based communication or video calls, can increase engagement for those with parasocial relationships because they can navigate challenges in a familiar online environment. The potential of online therapy can create more effective, available, and personalized health care, especially in addressing the nuances of parasocial relationships and social anxiety.