Exploring The Mental Health Implications Of Parasocial Interaction With Media Characters On Youth

There has been a significant increase in the consumption of media content, including films and television shows in India. This has been amplified by the proliferation of digital streaming platforms. Such a surge in content consumption has profound implications for the development of parasocial relationships and psycho-social aspects of media consumers. The existing study on parasocial interaction suggests that they have the potential to satisfy the social needs of companionship but it is of relevance to look into media characters that facilitate these relationships and their effect on the mental well-being of the individuals. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing a nuanced perspective on the role of media in contemporary society and its impact on social connections. This study by employing a mixed-method research approach sheds light on how these one-sided relationships with media personas influence viewers' emotional well-being and provide insights into the complex interplay of media consumption.