Student Scholar Symposium Abstracts and Posters

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

Spring 5-6-2026

Faculty Advisor(s)

Dr. Ian Barnard

Abstract

Parasocial relationships are one-sided emotional connections people form with media personalities such as influencers, streamers, and celebrities. Although these relationships are inherently unreciprocated, prior research has shown that they can provide meaningful feelings of companionship. While parasocial relationships are often viewed negatively, the current study examined the association between parasocial relationship strength and multiple dimensions of psychological well-being, including loneliness, perceived stress, self-esteem, and behavior mimicry. Grounded in Bandura’s Social Learning Theory, media personalities were conceptualized as role models whose behaviors and attitudes are observed, internalized, and potentially imitated by audiences. Participants completed an online survey assessing the strength of their parasocial connection with a favorite media figure, with a focus on emerging adults who frequently engage with online personalities for entertainment, guidance, and social fulfillment. It was hypothesized that stronger parasocial relationships would be associated with lower levels of loneliness and perceived stress, as well as higher self-esteem. Additionally, greater identification with a media figure was expected to predict increased likelihood of emulating that figure’s positive behaviors and attitudes. Overall, the findings highlight both emotional and behavioral outcomes of parasocial relationships and suggest that these connections may function as a meaningful source of support and social learning. These results carry important implications, indicating that rather than being dismissed as inherently harmful, parasocial relationships may serve adaptive roles when individuals are aware of their influence, underscoring the need for informed engagement rather than blanket discouragement.

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Presented at the Spring 2026 Student Scholar Symposium at Chapman University.

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