Do you really know? What are parasocial relationships, the one-sided connections between celebs and their fans?
Oct 16, 2025
Explore the fascinating world of parasocial relationships, where fans feel a deep connection to celebrities and fictional characters without any real interaction. Discover how social media amplifies these one-sided bonds, fostering familiarity and intimacy. Dive into the historical roots of these feelings, and hear insights from psychologists about our emotional attachments. While often harmless, understand the potential pitfalls if these obsessions overshadow genuine relationships, especially in a post-pandemic world.
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What Parasocial Relationships Are
- Parasocial relationships are one-sided feelings of familiarity or friendship toward public figures or fictional characters.
- They make us believe we know personalities and private reactions despite having no direct interaction.
Social Media Amplifies The Effect
- Social media has increased both the quantity and intensity of parasocial relationships by making people more accessible online.
- Constant access makes fans assume they know a celebrity's personality and private behavior.
Parasocial Roots Precede The Internet
- The concept predates the internet: Horton and Wohl coined the term in 1956 studying mass media interactions.
- Humans have long formed similar one-sided bonds with leaders and even gods across history.