The Nature of Parasocial Relationships
Parasocial relationships are one-sided relationships where one person extends emotional interest and time, while the other party has no idea of the other’s existence. Unlike real friendships and relationships, there is no interaction happening. One person feels a connection, and the other doesn’t even know that it is happening. Parasocial relationships are most commonly seen in regard to TV personalities, celebrities, and organizations as fans.
Many grasp parasocial relationships as a way to bypass fears of rejection and model relationships and real interactions as something they have curated in their minds. They build a fantasy, and through time they may think it has become their reality.
At first glance, it may be hard to differentiate between a devoted fan and a parasocial relationship. Someone who consistently consumes the person’s media, checks their socials, and streams their videos or interviews may just be a normal fan. It is natural for humans to gravitate towards something that makes them feel good and that they enjoy, but we have to ask ourselves: how does just liking something turn into an unhealthy obsession?
Social media only intensifies this phenomenon. It helps audiences build what seems like real connections with their favorite celebrities. Through photo dumps sharing bits of their lives, giving opinions in interview clips, and meet-and-greets, it is incredibly easy to keep track of people’s lives. As a result, this can make people feel like they have a true connection with these people.
With incidents resurfacing, like the Peter Pan incident at California’s Disneyland, where a cast member playing the character Peter Pan was harassed by a so-called “Disney Adult,” or an adult Disney fanatic, and it went viral online. The incident opened up a discussion on the nature of parasocial relationships and how, instead of being endearing or flattering, they can be dehumanizing and can make unaware parties severely uncomfortable.
“I think that these relationships are genuinely terrifying even though people make fun of them; I couldn’t imagine how weird and even violating that would feel to someone. I love certain people like musicians and actors, but to build something you think is real in your head and that not be true is a little sick,” said senior Joshua Washington.
One group that is largely impacted by this occurrence is teenagers and adolescents. Due to increased access to the internet and social media, younger age groups have adopted parasocial relationships as a means of connection and interaction. This often hinders aspects of self-image, social skills, and overall behavior in younger crowds.
In a paper written by Lisa Kuhns, a doctor of medicine and freelance medical writer explains that adolescents are spending an average of 10 hours a day on their devices, making a huge impact on their lives, such as not being able to function in everyday social interactions. Many clinicians say that parasocial relationships, or PSR, require intervention, especially in younger demographics. Clinicians recommend cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal psychotherapy to help with attachment issues.
Even with the backlash that parasocial relationships have, some seem to find nothing wrong with the phenomenon, with many stating that they don’t always have to turn “sour” but can instead be vessels of motivation and inspiration.
In an article from Psychology Today by Tara Well, a doctor in psychology at Barnard College, it explains that some researchers find that parasocial relationships function as social surrogates, like non-human items being used to stimulate human closeness and belonging when direct social interaction is absent in some situations. That the closeness and emotional response can be real even when the relationship is not.
“I think it’s cute when people really like something. These are people in a digital age, and to be honest, I truly like think it’s a phase and nothing will come of it. Yes, it can turn unhealthy, but the likelihood of that happening seems to be very rare,” said former neurology student, Cristie Jerome.
Although not inherently dangerous or immoral, like everything in life, there must be a balance. You are allowed to like, love, and maybe even adore directors, creators, and even musicians. Consuming and watching things that make you enjoy life isn’t a crime; it’s a necessity. But the development of parasocial relationships asks where the line can be drawn. It is crucial to understand the difference between reality and fantasy, admiration and obsession, and like and fixation.
