Why do I obsessively check an influencer's social media for updates?

It's common to find yourself frequently checking in on someone whose online presence you admire. This intense interest often stems from a natural human desire for connection and a sense of belonging, which can sometimes translate into a strong, one-sided attachment to public figures. Our brains are wired to seek out information about people we perceive as part of our social world, even if that connection is entirely digital.

Research from the University of London suggests that approximately 10% of social media users report feeling a strong, one-sided attachment to an online personality, often leading to frequent monitorin

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Am I the only one who obsessively checks an influencer's social media for updates?

Am I the Only One?

Does everyone obsessively check an influencer's social media for updates?

Does Everyone?

Is it normal to obsessively check an influencer's social media for updates?

Is It Normal?

Is it weird to obsessively check an influencer's social media for updates?

Is It Weird?

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

Is it normal to feel a strong connection to an influencer?▾
Feeling a strong connection to an influencer is quite common. Our brains can interpret frequent exposure to someone's life and personality online as a genuine relationship, even when it's one-sided and entirely digital. This is a natural human tendency to form attachments based on perceived closeness.
What makes me constantly want to see an influencer's new posts?▾
Several factors can contribute to constantly wanting to see new posts. The intermittent reward of new content, the desire to stay 'in the loop,' and the appeal of their lifestyle or advice can create a compelling urge to check back frequently. It's often driven by a sense of curiosity and an imagined social bond.
How does social media contribute to feeling attached to someone I don't know?▾
Social media platforms are designed to foster engagement and a sense of intimacy. Filters, direct messaging features, and behind-the-scenes content can create an illusion of closeness, making it easy to feel a personal attachment to someone you've never met. This constant stream of personal-seeming information can blur the lines of real-world relationships.

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