Development of parasocial interaction relationships

TLDR

The study explored the development of parasocial interaction relationships. This was done by applying principles of uncertainty reduction theory. Results showed that parasocial relationship development follows a path from social and task attraction to parasocial interaction to a sense of relationship importance, with exposure length unrelated, confirming interpersonal communication theories' relevance and suggesting future research directions.

Abstract

The parasocial interaction relationship development process was explored by applying principles of uncertainty reduction theory. Results suggested that parasocial relationship development follows a path from (a) social and task attraction to (b) parasocial interaction to (c) a sense of relationship importance. Length of exposure to the television character was not related to parasocial interaction in the path model. The study affirmed the contribution of interpersonal communication theories to understanding relationships people have with television personalities. Implications for future research were explored.