Has “stan culture” developed as a way to fill the gap left by fewer social connections? Research showing a decrease in close friendships and reliance on friends for support has raised the question of whether people may be turning to celebrities instead of companionship in a time of loneliness. Social media can make it feel like fans have a true connection to their favorite celebrity, which can both cure and cause feelings of isolation from others. Carla Marie Manly, a clinical psychologist, highlights “the really obsessive part leads people to believe that relationships can be available 24/7,” which is just not the case for close personal connections. (Salon)
📊 YPulse data: 26% of 13-39-year-olds consider themselves to be part of a fandom
