The Cambridge Dictionary has declared Parasocial as the Word of the Year 2025 This has sparked a discussion around Parasocial Relationships and whether they are healthy Know what psychologist shares

Parasocial relationships are one-sided relationships, typically with an everyday individual and a celebrity or fictional character, said assistant professor of communication studies at Colorado State University, Natalie Pennington.

When infatuation and fantasies about a celebrity or online influencer take over our real lives, we may be entering into the realm of parasocial relationships and the dangers that come with abandoning

"Parasocial" is the Cambridge Dictionary's Word of the Year, defined as a relationship felt by someone between themselves and a famous person they do not know. Its examples include the parasocial interest displayed by fans when singer Taylor Swift and American footballer Travis Kelce announced their engagement.

This feeling, the one where you think you know someone who doesn’t know you, is what fuels parasocial attachment. It’s especially visible in communities such as K-pop. The Korean entertainment industry has perfectly mastered the art of constructing closeness with idols and fans.

"Parasocial" is the Cambridge Dictionary's Word of the Year, defined as a relationship felt by someone between themselves and a famous person they do not know. Its examples include the parasocial interest displayed by fans when singer Taylor Swift and American footballer Travis Kelce announced their engagement.

The dictionary said searches for its Word of the Year spiked as online celebrity moments intensified public interest in one-sided relationships.