I plan to research how media figures affect specific audiences through the medium of social media. These figures, or influencers, form parasocial relationships with their viewers either unintentionally or intentionally, and I am interested to learn about which strategies are most effective in garnering support/attention. The effectiveness can be seen with how willing followers are to act a certain way or believe a certain concept based on the actions and beliefs of the influencer.

Temporary advisor:  Dr. Alex Bonus