Why do we form intense, one-sided bonds with people we've never met? From favourite podcasters and social media influencers to beloved fictional characters, parasocial relationships are a defining feature of modern life – but what do these seemingly non-reciprocal connections truly reveal about our need for connection? In today’s episode, we explore the psychology of parasocial relationships: why our brains are wired for these intimate-at-a-distance bonds, and how they play a surprisingly significant role, especially in our twenties.
We explore:
- Characteristics of parasocial relationships
- Why our ancient brains are predisposed to form these connections
- The parasocial relationships spectrum, from casual engagement to pathological obsession
- The profound positive benefits of companionship and role modelling
- When parasocial relationships become imbalanced
- How to cultivate healthy engagement with online personalities
Whether you feel like you're best friends with a YouTuber or just curious about the invisible ties that bind us to media figures, this episode is for you.
Listen to my NEW PODCAST, Mantra: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Ckds0BoJDDpODInN9cWcc?si=b6ad5d555c1940e0
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