parasocial interaction is a type of one-sided relationship in which an individual forms an imaginary connection with a media figure, such as a television or radio personality, or a fictional character. the term was first coined by donald horton and richard wohl in 1956 to describe the phenomenon of viewers feeling as though they knew a television personality and felt a sense of familiarity and intimacy with them.
examples of parasocial interaction include a fan feeling a strong connection to a favorite television character, or a listener feeling like they have a personal relationship with a radio personality. another example is a fan of a celebrity feeling like they are friends with them.
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