Parasocial relationships and their impact on the psychological and sociocultural adjustment of educational tourists: an autoethnography

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to investigate whether relationships with media figures can impact the psychological and sociocultural adjustment of educational tourists.Design/methodology/approachThe article uses the qualitative method of autoethnography to provide a highly personalised account of the first author’s relationships with podcast hosts during his time as an educational tourist, in order to fulfil its previously mentioned purpose.FindingsAn analysis of the author’s narrative account demonstrates how he formed parasocial relationships (PSRs) with his favourite podcast hosts. These relationships increased self-efficacy, reduced stress and provided a sense of social support, which, in turn contributed to psychological and sociocultural adjustment.Originality/valueBy demonstrating how relationships with media figures can impact their psychological and sociocultural adjustment, this article argues that research on educational tourists should explore their PSRs, in addition to their other kinds of friendships which have already been examined.