UC Davis

Parasocial Relationships can mirror social relationships, particularly to individuals in isolation. Student Affairs practitioners were enormously impacted by the conditions of the Great Distress Era (the period that included the COVID-19 restrictions, racial violence and protests in response, political unrest). Many engaged in parasocial relationships as a means of escape and connection during this time. Qualitative research interviews with student affairs professionals who worked supporting students during the period were conducted to examine the impact parasocial relationship had on their life and profession. Participants were found to have made meaning of these relationships through their use as coping mechanisms and connection points with others. These relationships also impacted their professional practice. This provides an opportunity for institutions to create priorities and support mechanisms for professionals in positions that can be expected to manage distress and experience that distress vicariously.