Do parasocial relationships with micro- and mainstream celebrities differ? An empirical study testing four attributes of the parasocial relationship

The aim of this study was to examine what extent parasocial relationships with micro-celebrities and mainstream celebrities differ in terms perceived reciprocity, authenticity, intimacy, interaction. A within-person comparison survey responses collected among 402 college students China showed that participants their as more reciprocal than celebrities. However, contrary our expectations, a lower degree authenticity intimacy for Moreover, we found no significant difference between the interactions both types We additionally investigated relative contribution interaction experienced micro- To end, performed multiple linear regression analyses run separately each type celebrity. models celebrities, perceptions reciprocity positively predicted interaction, suggesting these attributes are especially important fostering relationships. Interestingly, did not predict greater nor micro-celebrities, which suggests role may be different from is commonly assumed. implications shed light on changing nature context operating social media.