Revisiting parasocial theory in fan studies: Pathological or (path)illogical?
Abstract
Parasocial theory is not currently in favor within fan studies because it is seen as depicting fan behavior as pathological. However, an examination of the original text and its modern interpretations reveals the true, neutral image of fans that parasocial theory portrays, which allows it to be applied to fan communities and fan works. Accordingly, these applications are also discussed, with an emphasis on the K-pop industry, where the theory is particularly relevant.
Copyright (c) 2020 Rivkah Groszman

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