Parasocial Relationships
Parasocial relationships are false connections we create with media characters (fictional or real) through television, social media and other media. They are based on a false perception of proximity, believing that one knows the character as if they were a close friend. This occurs due to the power of the media in general and the human subconscious, which tends to interpret looking at the camera as a real conversation with the broadcaster.
In our daily lives, we interact with people around us, but we can also develop parasocial relationships with familiar television characters or celebrities who seem to know our thoughts and feelings. These relationships can be very intense and lead to the illusion that we are closer to these characters than to the real people in our lives. However, these close connections are only a figment of our imagination and have no real content.
What is a parasocial relationship?
Parasocial relationships are false connections we create with media characters (fictional or real) through television, social media and other media. They are based on a false perception of proximity, believing that one knows the character as if they were a close friend. This occurs due to the power of the media in general and the human subconscious, which tends to interpret looking at the camera as a real conversation with the broadcaster.
This psychological phenomenon occurs when we create a parasocial relationship between ourselves and a character, which leads us to feel affected by their role in the fiction. It is as if we believe in the existence of an emotional connection with them, which can generate feelings towards the character similar to how one feels towards a friend or family member. Parasocial relationships can be so intense that they even affect our emotional state and our way of thinking.
How parasocial relationships develop.
Parasocial relationships can develop in a variety of ways, but generally occur when we connect with a media personality through content such as television, film, or social media.
First, we create an emotional connection with the character through their acting or behavior on screen. This may be because they represent us as ourselves, or because we share certain characteristics or experiences with them. Once we have this emotional connection, we can begin to feel as if we know the character and that they know our thoughts and feelings as well.
The repetition and constant presence of the character in our favorite media can reinforce this connection and make us feel closer to them. Furthermore, media can foster this connection by providing us with information about the character out of context, which can fuel our imagination and lead us to create an even stronger parasocial relationship .
Parasocial relationships can also develop when we create an emotional bond with the actors or celebrities behind the character. This can happen when we identify with them, sharing their interests and hobbies, which can make us feel closer to them. In these cases, we can develop a parasocial relationship with the actor or celebrity themselves, beyond the character they play.
Focus on the digital age.
The digital age has further accentuated the tendency to develop parasocial relationships with famous and media personalities. With access to information and content constantly available through the Internet, social networks and mobile devices, we can connect with personalities and celebrities in an instant.
Social media in particular has changed the way we relate to famous people. We create a direct emotional bond with them through their profiles and constant updates, which can create a sense of proximity and connection. This can lead to developing even more intense parasocial relationships , as we feel as if we know the person or celebrity personally.
Furthermore, the influence of influencers and content marketing on social media has led to the creation of a culture of knowing around famous people. This translates into us feeling like we know more about them, their private lives and their thoughts, which can further strengthen our parasocial relationships .
The digital age has created an environment conducive to the development of parasocial relationships with media personalities and celebrities. Constant accessibility to information and content allows us to connect with them in a more intense and personalized way.
Examples of parasocial relationships
Parasocial relationships can develop in a wide range of contexts, from fictional characters to real-life celebrities.
One of the clearest examples is the relationship between fans and the characters featured in TV shows like Game of Thrones or Stranger Things. The audience can feel a strong emotional connection with the characters, empathizing with their achievements and misadventures.
Another typical example is the relationship between music fans and music artists. Fans can connect with artists through their songs and social media profiles, which can create a sense of proximity and connection.
Celebrities can also develop parasocial relationships with their followers. For example, actor Chris Evans became an object of devotion for many fans after his role as Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Fans felt connected to him through his public statements and social media activity.
Even influencers and content creators can develop parasocial relationships with their followers. For example, YouTuber PewDiePie (Felix Kjellberg) became a popular figure among gamers and tech enthusiasts, thanks to his humorous style and emotional connection with his audience.
In all of these cases, parasocial relationships can be so intense that they affect our daily lives. We may feel closer to certain characters or celebrities than we are to real people in our lives.
Importance of media personalities
Media personalities play a crucial role in our modern society. Often, these characters are a reflection of our own values, beliefs and dilemmas, allowing us to connect with them on a deeper level.
Furthermore, media personalities can influence our daily decisions and change our way of thinking. For example, some television personalities have been responsible for raising awareness about issues such as bullying, gender equality and mental health.
They can also be vehicles for promoting social and political causes. Media figures can inspire us to take a stand for a cause or movement, which can drive social change.
Psychologically speaking, media personalities can have a therapeutic effect on our emotions. By connecting with them, we can release tensions and negative emotions, which can improve our overall mood.
Media personalities are more than just fiction or entertainment. They are a reflection of our society and can influence our lives on many levels.
Conclusion
Parasocial relationships are a way in which we create emotional connections with media figures, which can lead to feelings of closeness and connection with them. This trend has been accentuated in the digital age, where social media and online content allow us to connect with figures and celebrities in a more intense and personalized way.
Media personalities play a crucial role in our modern society, being vehicles for the promotion of social and political causes, influencing our daily decisions and changes in our way of thinking. In addition, they can have a therapeutic effect on our emotions, releasing tensions and negative emotions.
Parasocial relationships are an integral part of the modern media experience, allowing us to connect with personalities and celebrities on a deeper level. Understanding this phenomenon can help the entertainment and communication industries create more relevant and engaging content that connects with audiences on a more personalized level.
