The social saragusy hypothesis says that our brains can be very sneaky about how we are fulfilling those needs. There's evidence that thinking about a beloved fictional character or world can make you feel less lonely. And studies show that writing about the target of your pari social relationship can boost your self esteem.
Really love a TV show; a boyband; a sci fi movie; or a celebrity? We're often too embarrassed to admit adoring some things for fear that we'll be seen as frivolous or childish - but we may be missing out on the happiness benefits that geeking out can bring.
Dr Laurie Santos explores the joy of fandom with Benedict Cumberbatch obsessive Tabitha Carvan, YA author Jennifer Lynn Barnes and Star Trek actor (and geek-vangelist) Wil Wheaton.
For Further Reading:
Tabitha Carvan - This Is Not A Book About Benedict Cumberbatch
Wil Wheaton - Still Just a Geek
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