Parasocial relationships,
Introduction.
If not all, most media enthusiasts have imagined interacting with a celebrity, media personality, movie, or novel character, and I am no exception. Perhaps, like me, you have imagined celebrities’ conduct outside on-screen or imaginatively intermingled with them. This phenomenon is called parasocial interaction, leading to parasocial relationships, which is comparable to social relationships. This kind of association is one-sided, and the subjects haven’t had a physical encounter. (Nabi & Oliver, 2009, p. 223-232). One of the most memorable movies I have watched is “The Great Gatsby,” and this essay discusses my parasocial relationship with Nick Carraway.
How do I relate to Nick Carraway?
Nick Carraway, a young, educated, and ambitious man, sets from Minnesota to New York to study bond business. I love his personality and social status, even at a young age. He builds social connections at his new home, West Egg, with the right people. I can imagine his excellent conduct in cutting business deals in the bond business. I admire his conversation and relationship with Jordan Baker and how he took center stage in the affairs of West Egg and East Egg, yet he was relatively new in the area.
I see a great business leader in him. Though to a small extent, Nick has influenced my conduct. I relate with him in the way I conduct myself when accompanied by friends. I see an organized and contented young man, off-screen. Nick has challenged me, and I am pursuing my career objectives with his zeal and hope.
The first time I watched the movie, I didn’t know that I was emotionally attached to him until he decided to end his relationship with Jordan Baker. I was disappointed. I had been moved by his quick success and was looking forward to his great family and business success only to be disappointed. To make it worse, he left for Midwest disgruntled and little hope.
Conclusion
Parasocial relationships begin with entertainment and grow the intensity to get more personal. At this second stage, character mimic, emotion control, and change of lifestyles is exhibited. I got this level since my emotions were deeply affected. The last stage is what leads to extremities, obsession, fantasizing, or worship of celebrities. (“Relationships: Parasocial relationships | Psychology | tutor2u,” n.d.).
References
Berger, C. R., Roloff, M. E., & Ewoldsen, D. R. (2010). The handbook of communication science (2nd ed.). SAGE.
Nabi, R. L., & Oliver, M. B. (2009). The SAGE handbook of media processes and effects. SAGE.
Relationships: Parasocial relationships | Psychology | tutor2u. (n.d.). tutor2u. https://www.tutor2u.net/psychology/reference/relationships-parasocial-relationships