parasocial relationships Flashcards
parasocial theory
an individual is attracted to another person who is usually unaware of there existence
first level of parasocial
entertainment- social
follow updates about them, watch and learn about them for entertainment purposes
not extreme behaviour, doesn’t affect functioning
second level of parasocial
intense- personal
deeper level of involvement, obsessed with every little detail
doesn’t stop functioning
third level of parasocial
borderline pathological
identifies celebs success and failures
uncontrollable fantasies about their lives
think feeling will be reciprocated
absorption addiction model
psychologically absorbed to establish a sense of fulfilment
McCutcheon 2002
she produced the absorption addiction model to explain parasocial relationships
why do people create parasocial relationships
due to lack of relationship in own life
common as they require few demands, no risk of rejection or criticism
what does it involve
effortless focusing of attention which leads them to believe relationship is special
border-lining pathological
become addicted due to their progressively stronger involvement that is required to remain connected
The attachment theory
explanation for the formation of an emotional bond between two people
Weiss 1991 three fundamental properties of adult attachment
- proximity seeking
- secure base
- protest at disruption
proximity seeking
attempt to reduce distance
collect details about them
rearrange schedules to see them
secure base
provides sense of security
no chance of rejection therefore can create a secure base where they can explore there relationship in a safe way
protest at disruption
attachment may be due to prolonged distress following separation or loss
strength Schiappa 2007
meta analysis of studies that influenced the formation of parasocial relationships
found people with higher levels of parasocial relationships also watched more television
