Parasocial Relationships Within Mass Media
Honors Capstone Project
1
Advisor(s)
Dr. Shane Tilton
Confirmation
1
Document Type
Paper
Location
Wishing Well
Start Date
16-4-2024 2:30 PM
End Date
16-4-2024 5:15 PM
Abstract
This presentation describes the double-edged sword of parasocial relationships or PSR within mass media. Parasocial relationships are described as “where one person extends emotional energy, interest, and time, and the other party, the persona, is completely unaware of the other's existence.” These relationships can create the illusion of a legitimate relationship for the consumer, all while potentially leading to dangerous obsession. This phenomenon has been studied since the 1950s but has matured and spread rapidly due to the rise of social media and the 2020 lockdowns, where people looked online for their relationships and social connections. This presentation will describe the rise of PSR and the harmful effects it can have on young people. Inversely, this presentation will explore the potential positive effects PSR can have with those who have difficulty socializing.
Recommended Citation
Zaferakis, Cole N., "Parasocial Relationships Within Mass Media" (2024). ONU Student Research Colloquium. 3.
https://digitalcommons.onu.edu/student_research_colloquium/2024/papers/3
Level of Access
Restricted to ONU Community
Restricted
Available to ONU community via local IP address and ONU login.
Parasocial Relationships Within Mass Media
Wishing Well
This presentation describes the double-edged sword of parasocial relationships or PSR within mass media. Parasocial relationships are described as “where one person extends emotional energy, interest, and time, and the other party, the persona, is completely unaware of the other's existence.” These relationships can create the illusion of a legitimate relationship for the consumer, all while potentially leading to dangerous obsession. This phenomenon has been studied since the 1950s but has matured and spread rapidly due to the rise of social media and the 2020 lockdowns, where people looked online for their relationships and social connections. This presentation will describe the rise of PSR and the harmful effects it can have on young people. Inversely, this presentation will explore the potential positive effects PSR can have with those who have difficulty socializing.