Sociology
The Social Dynamics of Micro-Celebrity and Parasocial Relationships Online
Quick fact
Research shows that viewers who follow micro-celebrities often feel a sense of 'imagined intimacy' that can be as strong as real friendship, and this illusion of closeness is deliberately cultivated by influencers through strategic self-disclosure and interactive rituals.
Why this is interesting
You’ve never met your favorite YouTuber, yet you might feel like you know them better than some of your real-life friends. How can a one-sided relationship feel so real?