Theorizing parasocial interactions based on authenticity: The development of a media figure classification scheme.

Abstract

The relationships viewers develop with media figures have received substantial attention in the scholarship of entertainment. The present research proposes an original four-dimension classification scheme of media figures theoretically based on authenticity across dimensions of depiction (live action vs. animated), story (fiction vs. nonfiction), form (human vs. nonhuman), and traits (super vs. normal). This classification addresses limitations from previous parasocial interaction (PSI) models and creates an exhaustive taxonomy of the types of media figures with whom viewers can develop PSIs. Implications for how the classification scheme informs identity formation, social comparisons with media figures, perceptions of social reality, maintenance of PSIs, and media enjoyment will be discussed.