Parasocial Relationships: Attachment Theory Outline

Question 1

Weiss (1991)

Answer 1

developed 3 fundamental properties of attachment that allow for PSR development:

Proximity Seeking

Secure Base

Protest at Disruption

Question 2

Proximity Seeking:

Leets et al (1995)

Answer 2

individuals attempt to reduce the distance between themselves and their attachment figure

L: eg staying informed about their favourite celeb such as collecting trivia or sending fan letters

Question 3

Secure Base:

Answer 3

an attachment figure provides a sense of security for the individual - a ‘safe haven’

allowing them to explore the world with little or no rejection

it also allows them to explore other relationships in a safe way

Question 4

Protest at Disruption:

Answer 4

the best marker of an attachment may be the presence of prolonged distress following separation or loss of the attachment figure

Question 5

Attachment style:

Cole and Leets (1999)

Answer 5

explain that some people are more likely to develop PSRs than others

insecure-avoidants are most likely to develop PSR due to possessing a concern that others won’t reciprocate ones desire for intimacy

it’s used a means to satisfy their ‘unrealistic’ needs

avoidants are least likely to develop PSRs due to finding it difficult to develop intimate relationships