Parasocial relationships are one-sided bonds individuals form with media figures, ranging from casual interest to intense emotional connections. These interactions can be influenced by factors such as social deficiencies and attachment styles, and can have both positive and negative impacts on an individual's well-being. The Absorption-Addiction Model and attachment theory help explain the progression and dynamics of these relationships, which can become problematic at extreme levels.
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Individuals form one-sided connections with media personalities or fictional characters
The rise of digital platforms has increased the potential for parasocial interactions
The Celebrity Attitude Scale outlines three levels of intensity in parasocial relationships: Entertainment-Social, Intense-Personal, and Borderline Pathological
This model explains how individuals with deficiencies in their social lives or introverted personalities may develop parasocial relationships
Absorption phase
Individuals become emotionally invested in a media figure's life
Addiction phase
Individuals become increasingly dependent on the relationship for emotional fulfillment
Individuals with insecure attachment styles, particularly anxious-preoccupied attachment, may seek out parasocial relationships as a substitute for direct interpersonal connections
Attachment theory can help explain why some individuals develop intense parasocial relationships and engage in extreme behaviors in defense of media figures
Parasocial relationships can provide companionship, motivation, and emotional support
When parasocial relationships become overly intense, they can hinder real-life social interactions, disrupt daily functioning, and contribute to psychological distress
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______ interactions refer to the one-sided relationships individuals have with media figures, who do not return any emotional engagement.
Parasocial
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The growth of ______ media has increased opportunities for people to feel a personal bond with celebrities and characters.
digital
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Entertainment-Social Level Characteristics
Casual interest, figure as entertainment and social interaction source.
