Do you have questions or concerns like these?
- What is Parasocial Interaction?
- What is a concrete example of Parasocial Interaction?
If you’re grappling with such questions and uncertainties, this time I will clearly explain:
- Overview
- A concrete example based on my experience
Please refer to this article to deepen your understanding of Parasocial Interaction.
What is Parasocial Interaction?
Parasocial interaction (PSI) refers to the psychological relationship experienced by an audience in their mediated encounters with performers in mass media, such as television and online platforms.
The term was first introduced by Donald Horton and Richard Wohl in 1956.
Early research explored how media users form social-like relationships with media personae, which function as a complement to actual social interactions.
Scientific Research
The study of PSI gained traction in the 1970s with advancements in mass communication research.
It analyzed relationships between audience members and TV newscasters, talk show hosts, and sitcom characters, highlighting how these interactions influence users’ cognition and emotions.
The advent of social media further intensified these relationships, providing more intimate and frequent interactions between users and media personae.
Psychological Implications
PSI during childhood and adolescence significantly impacts identity formation and learning.
Children often form strong parasocial bonds with TV characters, enhancing their learning experiences.
However, there are negative consequences, such as impacts on body image and increased aggression linked to PSI.
Impact on the Internet
With the rise of the internet, PSI has become a crucial factor in website visitation rates.
Websites that project a strong sense of personality encourage visitors to develop parasocial relationships, increasing user engagement and loyalty.
What is a concrete example of Parasocial Interaction?
I experience a strong parasocial interaction with Shohei Ohtani, the professional baseball player.
His performance has significantly influenced my daily life and mindset.
Daily Experiences
Morning Routine
Every morning, I start by checking the latest news and highlights of Shohei Ohtani’s games.
His performance is a source of motivation, encouraging me to give my best in my daily activities.
Health and Diet
Inspired by Shohei Ohtani’s strict diet and training regimen, I strive to maintain a healthy diet.
His recommendation for high-protein meals has particularly helped me improve my physical stamina.
Sports and Exercise
I love watching baseball, especially Shohei Ohtani’s games.
His exceptional skills and sportsmanship inspire me to adopt a similar attitude when I engage in sports and exercise.
Psychological Impact
The parasocial interaction with Shohei Ohtani has greatly influenced my self-awareness and goal-setting.
His success motivates me, helping me stay positive and determined even in challenging situations.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia article “Parasocial interaction” which is released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 4.0. Additionally, the texts and images were generated using ChatGPT.