Parasocial communication is defined as an illusory and one-sided interaction between the viewer and the media person, which is analogous to interpersonal communication. Among the classic media, television has the greatest potential for such interaction through a combination of audio and visual series and a wide range of television content – from newscasts to talent shows. Viewers’ reaction to this product can be seen as a defining element of parasociality and directly affect the popularity of a media person and the ratings of the TV channel. In this article we will consider feedback as part of parasocial communication and describe ways to express it in times of media transformations. The psychological interaction «media person – viewer» had been the focus of research by both psychologists and media experts for over 60 years. During the study, scientists described the predictors, functions, manifestations and possible consequences of paracommunication. One of the key elements of the formed parasocial connections is the real audience reaction. Our goal is to conceptualize the concept of feedback in the paradigm of parasocial communication and describe the main types of reactions to the media person in long-term parasocial relationships. The research focuses on the ways in which the viewer’s feedback on the television media person is expressed, bypassing the issue of classifying the audience’s feedback as «positive» and «negative». For this purpose, more than 20 interdisciplinary scientific works on the issue of parasocial interaction were analyzed and their generalization was carried out. Based on previous research, the types and methods of feedback in the television context are separated. With successful parasocial interaction, the viewer can react in different ways to the media person. The type of feedback will directly depend on the strength of the already established communication with the media person. We distinguish seven types of feedback and divide them into those that occur during or after a television show; those that are spontaneous or planned; aimed directly at the media person or third parties. We offer the following types of feedback from TV viewers: «talking to the TV»; telling about the experience of parasocial communication to others; following on social networks; likes and comments; imitation of behavior and appearance; purchase of recommended brands; fanart.
An Attachment Perspective on Favorite Media Figures
