Social Media Dangers: Parasocial Relationships

Social media has given us trends, exposure to other cultures, GRWMs, and inside-looks into celebrities' lives. However, with this significantly increased access to people online, especially those who are famous, a scary tendency has begun to emerge in which individuals believe they know an actor or singer personally and therefore have a right to certain information or consideration. This is called a parasocial relationship, and it threatens the mental wellbeing of individuals on either end of these abnormal interactions.

"Celebrities" have been a thing since civilization began. Whether it was a pretty young suitress from down the street whom everyone knew or the King of a country, societies often featured "popular" people whom many may desire to become or know. In the past century, many (normal) individuals became celebrities by being featured on the radio or the movie screen. At concerts and in theatres, millions would swoon for Elvis Presley and Bing Crosby, often seeing them as perfect or untouchable, yet understanding that they are not a friend.

With the uprise of social media and "relatabiliity"-focused videos (e.g. day in the life or no make-up clips), mass audiences now have access to perceive a celebrity's personality, quirks, and talents, just as they would a loved one. Accordingly, videos and photos online allow people to see glimpses into famous peoples' lives, in the same way one would keep up with friends and family. 

Examples of Parasocial Relationships





Dangers of Parasocial Relationships

With many parasocial relationships, celebrities are expected to provide a certain amount of attention or care to their fans, as expected with a standard friendship or relationship. 

For the fan:

For the celebrity:

Written by: Siena