Digital Literacy: Your Parasocial Relationship with Celebrities and Politicians

Parasocial Relationships are One-Sided Emotional Connections with a Politician or a Celebrity

What Are Parasocial Relationships?

Parasocial relationships, where individuals form non-reciprocal emotional bonds with public figures such as celebrities and politicians, have become increasingly common in modern society. Social media has exacerbated this cultural and psychological phenomena.

Parasocial relationships occur when a person feels a connection to a media figure, through repeated exposure via television, social media, podcasts, YouTube, livestreams and other platforms. It is important to realize:

• these relationships are one-sided

  
  

• media figures and their managers, publicists and social media content creators are shrewdly aware of the parasocial relationship(s) thye have created with their fanbase

  
  

• media figures and their managers, publicists and social media content creators are acutely aware they can use their influence positively or negatively

Of course, the public figure is completely unaware of the person's existence. The individual is unimportant to the media figure. However, with repeated exposure on multiple outlets, the individual's emotional and psychological boundaries break down.

In a twist that defies logic and reality, a fan can experience feelings similar to those in real friendships or romantic relationships. It can go further...the individual can alter or lose their sense of self, as they merge their identity with the energy of the media figure's persona.

This phenomenon was first described in the 1950's where it was noted how media consumers develop illusions, even delusions, of intimacy with performers. Fast forward to today, where the rise of social media has intensified these connections, allowing celebrities and politicians to have a ubiquitous presence on multiple platforms. Also, to deepen the sense of personal closeness, the media figure can share personal moments directly with their fan base.

What Do Parasocial Relationships Mean to Media Figures?

Media figures and their managers are well aware of this complex phenomena. The relationship with the fanbase is what makes them rich and influential.

Some media figures exploit the capacity they have to become imbedded in their fans' lives and sense of self. They sway the crowds with negative emotional rhetoric and suggestions of violence.

Other media figures behave responsibly, using their influence and status as role models in a positive manner. They talk about love, hope, friendship and community and purposely model behaviors that support these positive concepts.

Healthy and Unhealthy Aspects of Parasocial Relationships With Examples

Being a fangirl, fanboy or super fan is part of normal life. It can be healthy and life enhancing. Fans can feel part of a larger community. Having fun with other fans, collecting memorabilia and going to concerts within budgetary limits, is fun and uplifting.

Fans can be inspired by their celebrity role models to:

• connect with other fans in a positive social manner, thus reducing feelings of loneliness

• take care of their health,

• participate positively in their community

• contribute positively to society

• gain self-respect when marginalized groups are shown in a positive manner

The dark side of being a super fan is when identity becomes enmeshed with the media figure in an unhealthy way. Some signs of this are:

• neglecting your real life

• taking on the media figure's patterns of speech, mannerisms and worldview

• believing the media figure's version of reality without question

• getting upset if the media figure or their work is criticized

• letting the imaginary parasocial relationship with the media figure take precedence over interactions with real people.

Examples of Healthy Aspects of Parasocial Relationships

Emotional Support and Companionship

Research shows that parasocial relationships can provide emotional comfort, especially for individuals who feel isolated or lonely. For example, fans of a celebrity might find solace in their music, interviews, social media and fan groups, which can create a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of loneliness.

Louise Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World" has themes of friendship, love and hope that people often describe as comforting.

Positive Impact on Health Behaviors and Community Volunteerism

Celebrities and politicians often serve as role models. As stated above, some are irresponsible with their influence and incite division and negativity. Others consciously use their influence to responsibility model positive community actions.

Thus, parasocial bonds can motivate individuals to adopt positive behaviors, such as pursuing education, engaging in activism, improving health habits or volunteering in their community.

In addition, celebrities can have use their influence to remove stigma around health issues, and to encourage others to seek needed help.

The late Princess Diana’s openness about her struggles with mental health helped reduce stigma and encouraged many to seek help. Her parasocial connection with the public made her a powerful advocate for mental health awareness.

Brandon Marshall, retired from the NFL as a wide receiver, is another example of positive use of his relationship with his fans. He is openly sharing his personal mental health story: how he came to seek help and the eventaul diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder, and his use of successful treatments.

Enhancing Social Identity in a Positive Way

Identifying with a public figure can strengthen a person’s social identity and group membership. Fans of a particular celebrity or political leader may feel part of a community, which can boost self-esteem and social connectedness.

For example, Taylor Swift empowers the LGBTQ community with her song and video, "You Need to Calm Down." It has funny lyrics and a dance beat. In the video, the larger community joins in a fun happy dance.

Facilitating Positive Political Engagement

Parasocial relationships with politicians can increase political interest and participation. When voters feel connected to a candidate, they are more likely to follow political news, vote, and engage in discussions.

For instance, political figures who advocate for social justice can inspire civic engagement among followers. The late Congressman John Lewis was a prominent civil rights activist who modeled peaceful non-violent protest and change through respresentation. Many people were inspired to join peaceful civil rights protests and also some were inspired to run for public office.

Unhealthy Aspects of Parasocial Relationships With Examples

Risk of Unrealistic Expectations and Disillusionment

Because parasocial relationships are one-sided and based on curated media images, they can create unrealistic expectations. When the public figure behaves contrary to the follower’s idealized image, it can lead to disappointment or emotional distress.

For example, when celebrities are involved in scandals, such as Lance Armstrong’s doping admission, fans experienced betrayal and disillusionment, highlighting the risks of idealizing public figures.

Risk of Emotional Dependency and Avoidance

Some individuals may rely excessively on parasocial relationships to meet emotional needs, avoiding the pursuit of real-life social interactions.

This can exacerbate their social isolation and hinder the development of meaningful, real-life interpersonal relationships.

Risk of "Misinformation Acceptance" Through Repetitive Manipulation

Some politicians and celebrities exploit parasocial bonds to consciously manipulate the opinions and behaviors of their fanbase. Knowing full well the power of their influence, media figures will put out repetitive disinformation, with the goal of influencing their fanbase to accept their messages uncritically. This is called misinformation acceptance.

Donald Trump uses repetitive disinformation to cultivate misinformation acceptance among fanbase as a way to attain and keep power and money. Trump used repetitive disinformation regarding the 2020 Presidential election. Trump's disinformation campaign resulted in the January 6 Insurrection. Capitol Police officers were viciously attacked by the mob and suffered injury and death. The Capitol Building itself was vandalized, windows broken, feces were smeared on the walls and offices vandalized. The mob specifically threatened to murder Nancy Pelosi and Mike Pence, who fled with the help of Secret Service and Capitol Police.

Risk of Privacy and Boundary Issues

Parasocial relationships blur the boundaries between public and private life. Because the fan feels like they have an actual personal relationship with the media figure, they begin to feel entitled to more and more personal information. This can lead to obsessive behaviors, which can include invading the privacy of public figures and even stalking behaviors.

Multiple politicians and celebrities report stalking and home break-ins by fans who have developed unhealthy obsessions. Miley Cyrus had her home broken into by a fan who claimed to be her husband. Justin Beiber was stalked by a fan who claimed to love him and wanted him to be her lover. Taylor Swift has had mutliple incidents of stalkers breaking into her homes, professing true love to her. She has 24/7 bodyguards and even carries medical supplies in case of physical attack. Madonna has had several stalkers, one of whom broke into her home and left her love notes, as he believed he had a special relationship with her.

How to Keep Your Parasocial Relationships Healthy

To benefit from parasocial relationships while minimizing harm, individuals can:

• Learn the definition of parasocial relationships

• Learn the definition of misinformation acceptance

• Realize media figures will exploit the parasocial phenomema for power, money and influence

• Maintain awareness that these relationships are one-sided and intentionally mediated by staff. Be aware that media figures have managers, publicists and social media content creators who are consciously manipulating the celebrity's media messages. They are consciously amplifying their chosen influences over their fanbase.

• Practice mindful use of social media. Balance media consumption with real-life social interactions.

• Analyze the information and actions of public figures critically. In other words, don't simply accept their statements at face value. Be a mindful consumer of news and conduct research using a variety of sources, not just those you find agreeable.

• Seek support from trusted friends or professionals if you notice and feel like your identity has changed and your friendships, your work life and your life in general has become overshadowed by an emotional dependency.

  
  

Summary

Parasocial relationships with celebrities and politicians offer both positive and negative effects. They can provide feelings of belonging, emotional support, inspiration, and increased social and political engagement.

At the same time, they risk fostering unrealistic emotional attachment, emotional dependency, manipulation and misinformation acceptance. Understanding these dynamics helps individuals navigate their media consumption more mindfully.

In light of these known dynamics, many media figures engage responsibly with their audiences, but there are also a rising number exploit this dynamic for financial and power gain. Think critically and be aware of those media figures who use continuous negative messaging to influence their fanbase.

Reflect on your own connections with public figures. Consider how these relationships influence your feelings and actions, and strive to maintain a healthy balance between media engagement and real-world relationships.

References

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Dibble, J. L., Hartmann, T., & Rosaen, S. F. (2016). Parasocial interaction and parasocial relationship: Conceptual clarification and a critical assessment of measures. Human Communication Research, 42(1), 21-44. https://doi.org/10.1111/hcre.12061

Giles, D. C. (2002). Parasocial interaction: A review of the literature and a model for future research. Media Psychology, 4(3), 279-305. https://doi.org/10.1207/S1532785XMEP0403_04

Hoffman, L. H., & Thomson, R. (2018). Parasocial relationships and political engagement: The role of candidate communication. Journal of Political Marketing, 17(3), 225-246. https://doi.org/10.1080/15377857.2017.1418265

Labrecque, L. I. (2014). Fostering consumer–brand relationships in social media environments: The role of parasocial interaction. Journal of Interactive Marketing, 28(2), 134-148. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.intmar.2013.12.003

Littlejohn, E. (2025). Parasocial relationships: How far is too far? https://www.communicatingpsychologicalscience.com/blog/parasocial-relationships-how-far-is-too-far

Stever, G. S. (2011). Fan behavior and lifespan development theory: Explaining parasocial and social interaction. Journal of Adult Development, 18(1), 1-7. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10804-010-9113-3

Trepte, S., & Reinecke, L. (2013). The reciprocal effects of social media use and the impact on social well-being. Computers in Human Behavior, 29(3), 1102-1109. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2012.11.023