Core Perspective - The term "parasocial" has been recognized as the 2025 word of the year by the Cambridge Dictionary, describing a one-sided emotional connection individuals feel towards celebrities, fictional characters, or AI chatbots, reflecting the emotional characteristics of the digital age [1] Group 1: Definition and Origin - The concept of "parasocial" originated in 1956 by sociologists Donald Horton and Richard Wohl, who observed that television audiences develop imaginary interpersonal interactions with broadcasters and celebrities [1] - It specifically refers to the one-sided and enduring emotional ties people form with fictional characters or online public figures, such as fans supporting their idols or gamers expressing feelings towards game characters [1] Group 2: Theoretical Frameworks - Attachment theory suggests that when real-life relationships are uncertain, "parasocial" figures serve as ideal emotional refuges due to their constant availability and lack of rejection [2] - The uses and gratifications theory emphasizes that users actively engage with "parasocial" relationships to fulfill needs for belonging, self-identity, and escapism [2] - Social exchange theory indicates that for socially anxious individuals, "parasocial" relationships offer low-investment, high-reward emotional exchanges compared to real-life relationships [2] - Dramaturgical theory posits that carefully crafted public personas can serve as perfect canvases for fans to project their ideal selves [2] Group 3: Positive and Negative Impacts - "Parasocial" relationships provide emotional support for socially vulnerable groups, alleviate loneliness, and foster personal growth through positive role models [3] - However, prolonged engagement in "parasocial" interactions may weaken real-life social skills, leading to a cycle of increased loneliness, particularly among AI companion users, where the risk of depression and loneliness nearly doubles [3] - Users accustomed to frictionless relationships with AI may struggle with real-life relationships, facing challenges in tolerance for conflict and compromise [3] - The phenomenon may also create information bubbles, leading to cognitive biases and a loss of independent thinking, while widespread emotional displacement could accelerate social atomization and weaken traditional community bonds [3] Group 4: Recommendations for Balance - To address the trend of "parasocial" relationships, individuals should maintain awareness of their one-sided and designed nature, setting clear boundaries for time and emotional investment [4] - Online interactions should be viewed as gateways to offline communication, encouraging the cultivation of real-life interests and social connections [4] - Society should enhance media literacy education across all age groups, promoting rational public discourse and critical thinking about online content [4] - Building offline community spaces and organizing activities can create more opportunities for real interpersonal interactions [4] - Ultimately, while "parasocial" relationships can provide temporary comfort, they cannot replace the depth of real-life connections, emphasizing the importance of genuine human interactions [4]