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Are parasocial relationships the new normal?

05th - 12th December 2025

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47856

Total votes

9392

5-11 votes

38464

11-16+ votes

Cambridge Dictionary chose “parasocial” as their word of the year for 2025, to reflect the rising trend of one-sided or technology-based relationships. It can be defined as, “a connection that someone feels between themselves and a famous person they do not know, a character in a book, film, TV series, etc.” Taylor Swift’s engagement, Lily Allen’s new album and, more recently, relationships developed with AI have been cited as examples of parasocial activity. The term isn’t new, having been coined in 1956; people have felt strong one-sided connections with celebrities for a long time. However, with the rise of social media, AI technology and behind-the-curtain glimpses into celebrities’ lives, it has become a much more prevalent phenomenon in recent years. We wanted to see how young people felt about these relationships, and whether we can foresee them as the new normal.

Secondary, 16+ & College voters were asked: “Are parasocial relationships the new normal?”, while Primary 7-11 voters discussed: “Can parasocial relationships be helpful?”, and Primary 5-9 voters considered: “Are imaginary friends helpful?”

47,856 young people in the UK have taken part in this vote.

child

5-11 voter

Yes because it’s the same as having a role model. It gives me something to aspire to.

teen

11-16 voter

It’s becoming more common, but that doesn’t mean it should be normal — real-life relationships are what matter most.

student

16+ voter

I think it’s normal now, but I don’t think it will replace two-way relationships — it’s more about looking up to idols.

Thank you to The Wellbeing Hub from Teen Tips for responding to young people's votes on this topic!

59% of Secondary students argued that young people should have a say on what is taught in RSE.

  • 7-11-year olds were discussing the question, "Can parasocial relationships be helpful?"
  • The majority, at 78% said 'Yes', however most said so cautiously, as they also recognised the dangers of prioritising parasocial relationships over real connections.
51% of 9-11 year olds argued they do get enough relationships education in school.

  • Secondary, 16+ & College students were answering the question, "Are parasocial relationships the new normal?"
  • 83% of Secondary students and 76% of those older said 'No'.
  • Many highlighted potential risks to mental health, privacy and identity, particularly in relation to social media and AI.
Concerns that the current RSE curriculum can be repetitive were made by some students.

  • 5-7-year olds were discussing a more age-relevant question, with "Are imaginary friends helpful?"
  • Just over half, at 56% said 'Yes', with some arguing they can help with confidence and feelings of loneliness.

  • The majority of young people stressed the importance of prioritising two-sided relationships over parasocial relationships with strangers, celebrities or technology.
  • It is clear that young people recognise both the appeal and the risks of parasocial relationships but they highlighted the importance of keeping them healthy and in perspective.