ABSTRACT
A parasocial relationship is a perceived relationship with a media personality or fictional character that fulfills some attachment needs and is fundamentally equivalent to a real-life relationship. This chapter analyzes a sample of fan reactions to changes in the Barbara Gordon (Batgirl/Oracle/Batgirl) character through the lens of six components of parasocial relationships – Affinity, Perceived Similarity, Empathy, Wishful Identification, Parasocial Interaction, and Influence – in order to learn more about how habitual readers of serial comic books with recurring characters develop and maintain parasocial relationships with comic book characters. The sample is derived from posts on fan site community billboards and comments in response to relevant blog posts.
