Parasocial breakups: Measuring individual differences in responses to the dissolution of parasocial relationships

A self-report measure is presented for assessing the expected reactions of television viewers to the loss of parasocial relationships. Based on three separate samples, the measure is validated and used to explore differences in how people react to parasocial breakup. Findings suggest that, although women develop stronger parasocial relationships, they do not react differently than men to expected breakup. Teens, however, expect to be more upset than adults, following parasocial breakup. Results demonstrate the construct validity of the new scale, and its potential contribution is discussed.