From Amazon.com:

“Real Characters: The psychology of parasocial relationships with media characters, explores the unique relationship between viewers and fictional characters in TV, film and social media. Edited by Dr. Karen Shackleford, the book showcases the research of leading scholars and practitioners who understand what fictional characters mean to us from a psychological perspective. As a result of the pandemic, many people have embraced the escapism afforded by streaming services such Netflix, Amazon Prime, Apple Plus and Disney Plus, strengthening the role that media characters play in their lives. All of us have felt a strong connection to particular stories and characters, whether from literature, films, television, theater, or other media phenomena. The book shows why that is: because these characters serve as models and avatars that prompt us to consider our relationships, our identities and our values. History tells us that stories have always acted as a source of social simulation, triggering us to process our own emotions and ideas. Today, in an age of streaming video and social media, the role of fictional stories and characters is more pervasive than ever.

“Throughout the book, the authors take us inside the human mind, revealing how these connections can benefit us as social creatures, and help us to see our own experiences with fictional characters in a new and fascinating light.

“With 23 contributing authors from universities in the US, Canada and Great Britain, Real Characters is the collaborative product of leading experts in social psychology, media psychology, and communications theory. These are scientists and storytellers who not only present their research, but also reveal their own personal experiences with characters who have changed them. As such, this book is targeted on a general readership that wants to understand how fictional characters continue to impact our lives. In addition, it is a must-read for any scholar interested in the growing role of parasocial relationships in our media-saturated society.”