The Harmful Side of Parasocial Relationships
While parasocial relationships might seem harmless at first, experts warn that they can have negative consequences. Dr. Rachel Kowert, a psychologist who studies social media’s effects, explains that parasocial relationships are a normal part of human behavior, but they become problematic when they replace real-life, two-way interactions. For example, when a fan invests too much emotional energy into a celebrity they don't know personally, it can leave them feeling lonely and disconnected from their own social circle. This is especially dangerous for young people who may not have the emotional maturity to understand the boundaries between online personas and real-life relationships.
Dr. Kowert emphasizes that balance is key. It's fine to enjoy content and feel inspired by a celebrity, but it's important not to lose sight of the fact that these relationships are not real. They are not reciprocal. Celebrities are sharing curated parts of their lives, and they are not obligated to engage with fans in the same way they share their content. This is a crucial point, as many fans feel a sense of entitlement to their favorite stars' time and attention, which can lead to unhealthy expectations.
The rise of TikTok has made this phenomenon even more widespread. Fans don’t just watch TikTok videos; they feel involved in the creator’s life. In many cases, TikTok stars engage directly with their followers through comments and live streams. While this can help build a more personal connection, it also deepens the parasocial bond. Some fans may start to feel as if they are part of the creator’s inner circle, even though they are still strangers to each other. This sense of closeness can blur the line between real and digital relationships.