New Publication:
The Oxford Handbook of Parasocial Experiences
Edited by Rebecca (“Riva”) Tukachinsky Forster
Publisher: Oxford University Press (June 2023)
ISBN-10: 0197650678
ISBN-13: 978-0197650677
456 pages
https://global.oup.com/academic/product/the-oxford-handbook-of-parasocial-experiences-9780197650677
https://www.amazon.com/Oxford-Handbook-Parasocial-Experiences/dp/0197650678
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The Oxford Handbook of Parasocial Experiences examines how audiences psychologically relate to people they see in the media. Specifically, the term Parasocial Experiences (PSEs) is used to refer to parasocial relationships (PSRs) and parasocial interactions (PSIs). This Handbook features contributions by leading scholars of the field, featuring a thorough synthesis of research of PSEs, celebrating the field’s accomplishments to date but also outlining a blueprint for future growth and providing resources for planning and executing research in this field.
The book is organized in six sections covering: (1) theoretical, conceptual, and operational definitions of PSEs; (2) theoretical models and state-of-the-art review of research on PSEs across the lifespan; (3) the effects of PSEs on media users’ self and their social life; (3) the effects of PSEs in various contexts such as health, politics, and marketing; and (4) identifying understudied areas of research that call for further investigation such as comparative cross-cultural research. Across the thematic chapters, the authors debate several overarching critical theoretical issues in PSEs research, such as the boundaries between parasocial and social phenomena and the distinctions between PSEs and other forms of involvement with media. The book also includes a hands-on methodological chapter that provides detailed information about measurement and manipulation of PSEs.
For more information about the book, including table of content and a complete list of contributing authors: https://global.oup.com/academic/product/the-oxford-handbook-of-parasocial-experiences-9780197650677
For a digital copy of the book/chapters: https://academic.oup.com/edited-volume/46261
About the Author:
Rebecca (Riva) Tukachinsky Forster (tukachin@chapman.edu) is an Associate Professor in the School of Communication at Chapman University. Her research examines psychological involvement with media, particularly how individuals relate to and are ultimately impacted by celebrities and fictional characters.