Absorption addiction model also explains parasocial relationships
Absorption addiction model created by McCutcheon et al
Absorption addiction model says people form parasocial relationships when they have a weak sense of identity and find their own life deficient
McCutcheon et al 2 stages of model
Absorption
Addiction
Absorption = Absorbed following celebrity, form of espacism
Addiction = Some cases parasocial relationship become addictive and individual becomes increasinly obsessed with celebrity, can lead to stalking
Strengths of absorption addiction model:
Maltby et al found evidence there is a connection between parasocial relationships and mental health
Ps who engage in parasocial relationships were found to be functioning less wellpsychologically than those who didnt
Strengths of absorption addiction model:
Positive correlation between levels of anxiety and depression and frequency of more extreme parasocial relationships
Model explains why most form entertainment-social relationships and minority are borderline-pathological
Weaknesses of absorption addiction model
Model criticised for ignoring the positive aspects of being a fan and for stigmatising people who form parasocial relationships by linking behaviour to poor mental health
Weaknesses of absorption addiction model
Studies used to support model don't show that poor psychological functioning causes people to form parasocial relationships and they just show that two things correlate
