Parasocial

Parasocial relationships today are becoming a stronger reality as media and social networking are becoming the norm. So many people are living vicariously through characters, professional athletes, reality tv stars, etc. I don't get it. Why are we so connected to these fictional characters or famous idols that we have never met? I believe it’s a cop out of reality. So much so that when we are living vicariously through these people we forget the stresses or disappointments in our life. We idolize these characters and strive in the little ways to be like them but know our reality does not allow that. The alternative is to create a "friendship" with them. We keep up with their lives and become emotional attached because we feed off of the drama. Getting caught up in this gives us something to look forward to everyday. These relationships essentially can never be lost. Because we create this relationship we are in full control of how strong they are and how long they last.

 

I am somewhat anti-parasocial relationships. I believe they can sometimes interfere with your interpersonal relationships. If a significant other shares the same love for the character, actor, athlete or whoever than maybe it creates something to talk about but ultimately people can become so obsessed and lost in that parasocial relationship that lack of effort in others can be a result. There is a happy medium. It is great to have role models and interests but obsessions can be hindering. My somewhat parasocial relationships are Jennifer Lawrence and Carrie Underwood. I sometimes talk as though I know them and we are friends. I try and catch myself doing that because I realize this idea is in fact insane.