Parasocial Paradigm

Parasocial Paradigm

Have you ever felt like you knew your favorite celebrity, actor, musician, movie star, etc., like they are your best friend? That feeling of connection is called a "parasocial relationship", where one side of the relationship is more invested in it and aware of it than the other side. Follow along with host Sam Erikson in this limited series when he explores parasocial relationships, how they affect us, and how they influence our daily lives.

Episodes

February 21, 2025 16 mins
In this final episode, Sam talks about the history of parasocial relationships from Elvis to Taylor Swift! 
Mark as Played
In this episode, Sam talks about the dark side of parasocial relationships- obsession, stalking, and emotional dependency. 
Mark as Played
February 7, 2025 26 mins
In this episode, Sam talks with Dr. Kate Oswald Wilkins, Dean of General Education, Common Learning, and Academic Support, and Professor of Communication, about parasocial relationships in the context of the field of communication! 
Mark as Played
January 31, 2025 16 mins
In this episode, Sam discusses the "illusion of intimacy" associated with parasocial relationships! 
Mark as Played
January 24, 2025 11 mins
In this first episode of Parasocial Paradigm, Sam talks about the basics of parasocial relationships! 
Mark as Played

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