Horton & Wohl (1956) called for research into how parasocial interactions “are integrated into the matrix of usual social activity” (p. 228). In light of social media, this panel answers that very call and will explore the characteristics of parasocial existence that demand additional research. The panel will examine how social media and increased 2-way communication between audiences and celebrities, politicians, and fictional characters alter our current understandings of PSRs as we seek new operationalizations of existing parasocial research concepts. Moderator: T. Phillip Madison, Stephen F. Austin State University Panelists: Robin Haislett, Texas Tech University Lakshmi N. Tirumala, University of Cincinnati Casey Hart, Stephen F. Austin State University Chris McCollough, Columbus State University
Tuesday April 14, 2015 1:45pm - 3:00pm PDT
Pavilion 11
