Parasocial Interactions

I have seen parasocial interactions from people I know, but never knew the actual concept of it. I always looked down on people who practically thought they had a relationship with someone famous they have never even met in person. I just figured they did not have the right social skills to form relationships with others in their life and they were lonely. But I see it differently now that I know there is no correlation between parasocial interactions and a person's social skills or loneliness. Even I find myself sometimes leaning toward a parasocial interaction with certain celebrities. The celebrity I chose in class to evaluate was Josh Hamilton, who plays for the Texas Rangers. I was one of the highest scores in the class with a 79. However, I think it is more that I admire him rather than feeling a personal relationship with him. I have seen what kind of a person he is, and the things he believes in and works for. I guess it is easier than I thought to feel so close to someone I have never met.