The influence of parasocial interactions on Gen Z lives: participatory storytelling through Rivers of Life

Background: Generation Z individuals were raised in a technological world where they can instantly connect and have information and communication channels at their fingertips. Hence, it is not surprising that this generation is tech savvy and prefers to socialise online rather than face to face. They may be more predisposed to parasocial interactions from activities involving social media and digital platforms. Aim: To investigate how parasocial interactions affect Gen Z-ers’ lives in terms of their personal development, decision making and life choices. Design: Exploratory, participatory research study. Setting: Online via Microsoft Teams. Method: Rivers of Life workshop with 11 people aged between 18 and 28 years with experience of parasocial interactions. Data was analysed by systematic text condensation and followed up with collective feedback from participants. Results: Five themes were generated: ‘direction in life’, this is me’, ‘affected my feelings’, ‘connecting with others’ and ‘getting on with it’. While parasocial interactions had potentially influenced aspects of participants’ behaviours and personality traits, their decision to pursue higher education was not dependent on their parasocial interactions. Conclusion: Parasocial interactions are likely to remain part of young people’s lives. Preliminary findings from this study could serve as a basis for building awareness on parasocial effect and influence in the lives of young people to promote their well-being.