Strong relationships are vital for overall well-being, but not all social connections are the same. Psychologists are delving into the realm of “parasocial relationships,” which involve the bond people feel with celebrities, social media influencers, imaginary friends, and fictional characters. These are relationships where individuals feel a sense of knowing someone who cannot reciprocate that feeling, according to social neuroscientist Dylan Wagner from Ohio State University.
Wagner’s research focuses on studying brain activity to gain insights into how people perceive their social interactions. In recent years, he has shifted his attention towards comparing the relationships individuals form with fictional and real individuals. His findings have revealed both similarities and differences between these relationships, shedding light on how individuals connect with stories, the virtual world, and each other.
When studying fans of Game of Thrones, Wagner aimed to understand how people think about fictional and real individuals. By utilizing fMRI to analyze brain activity in the medial prefrontal cortex, which is associated with social cognition, his research uncovered intriguing differences in how the brain processes thoughts about fictional versus real people. Surprisingly, thinking about fictional characters triggered less brain activity in this region compared to thoughts about real individuals.
Moreover, Wagner discovered that individuals who were highly immersed in a story showed brain activity patterns that aligned more closely with each other, indicating a shared processing of information. This suggests that those who are easily transported by narratives have a similar perception of characters and storylines, unlike individuals who are less engaged.
The concept of parasocial relationships, where individuals feel a connection with media personalities or fictional characters, can have significant effects. These relationships can impact behavior, influence decision-making, and even fulfill emotional needs for some individuals. For instance, thinking about a favorite fictional character during a challenging task may improve performance by increasing attention and focus.
Lonelier individuals may be more prone to blurring the lines between real and fictional relationships, as they seek a sense of belonging and connection. The rise of virtual interactions and online connectivity may also contribute to how individuals perceive and interact with real people, potentially downgrading the significance of physical presence in relationships.
As we navigate the evolving landscape of social connections, understanding the dynamics of parasocial relationships and the impact of fictional characters on our lives becomes increasingly relevant. Exploring the nuances of these interactions can offer valuable insights into human behavior, social cognition, and emotional well-being. Ultimately, the study of parasocial relationships provides a fascinating window into the complex interplay between the virtual world, storytelling, and our innate social nature.
