Does everyone feel like an influencer understands them better than friends?

It's common to feel a strong connection to online personalities, sometimes even more so than with people we know in real life. This often happens because influencers share very specific parts of their lives or opinions that align perfectly with our own experiences or aspirations. The curated nature of their content can create a powerful sense of relatability, even if the understanding isn't two-sided.

Research from the University of Southern California suggests that over 60% of Gen Z consumers report feeling a stronger connection to online influencers than to traditional celebrities.

See other perspectives

<h1>Am I the only one who feels like an influencer understands me better than my friends?</h1>

Am I the Only One?

Is it normal to feel like an influencer understands you better than your friends?

Is It Normal?

<h1>Is it weird to feel like an influencer understands you better than friends?</h1>

Is It Weird?

Why do I feel like an influencer understands me better than my friends?

Why Do I?

Real stories from the community

So there’s this young woman, she’s a vlogger, a YouTube person, whatever they call it. …

parasocial attachment

I’ve been watching this podcaster, a college student, sort of, who's quite popular, I suppose. …

parasocial attachment

you ever just feel this kind of almost like a pathological protectiveness over something or someone totally unrelated to your actual life kind of thing like I spend hours sometimes late at night… …

parasocial attachment

It’s a peculiar thing, this vicarious living, and I remember the distinct feeling of accomplishment that settled in my chest, a quiet, almost diagnostic satisfaction, as I’d arrange those spice jars… …

parasocial attachment

It’s an objectively stupid thing I do, this whole defending a podcaster thing, but here we are. …

parasocial attachment

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I feel so connected to influencers?▾
You might feel connected because influencers often share specific interests, struggles, or lifestyles that mirror your own. Their content is designed to be engaging and create a sense of intimacy, even if it's a one-way interaction.
Is it normal to prefer influencer content over real-life interactions?▾
It's increasingly common to spend a lot of time with online content. While engaging with influencers is a popular pastime, maintaining real-life connections is important for well-being. It's about finding a balance that works for you.
How do influencers create a sense of understanding?▾
Influencers often use techniques like direct address, sharing personal anecdotes, and focusing on niche topics. This creates an illusion of a close, personal relationship, making viewers feel uniquely understood and seen.

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