Google defines a parasocial relationship as “a one-sided connection with a media figure or fictional character. It's a psychological term that describes a bond that feels real, but isn't reciprocated.”
For me, I have many. Whether it’s with actors, singers or YouTubers – I’ve had this connection with many people over the years. For the people I’m a fan of, I want to see them happy and successful, similar to how I feel towards my friends.
I first came into contact with this term from a video uploaded by Dan and Phil – two YouTubers that I’ve watched since I was around 11 years old. Finally, I had a definition of a connection that, to me, means more than just being a fan but not being perceived as crazy or obsessed. I realised how much this new term was relevant to my life: from singers and bands, like Billie Eilish and Little Mix, to Actors, like Danielle Savre and Stefania Spampinato (from my favourite TV Show – Station 19), to YouTubers.
A Google search explained to me that this concept came to light in the public during the pandemic, where we couldn’t connect with people in real life. People took to social media and streaming services to find comfort in other people’s lives – whether that be through a new TV show or someone talking about what they do on a day when they couldn’t do anything outside.
Understandably, some people can take this too far. From messaging someone relentlessly to sending the celebrity different gifts – it is important to know that everyone needs to stay safe in situations like this. I avoid people like this, usually telling them I don’t agree with their behaviours and reminding myself that being supportive of someone doesn’t mean you have to make them your personality.