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Using imaginary worlds for real social benefits.

Shira Gabriel1, Melanie C Green1, Esha Naidu1

  • 1Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo (SUNY), Buffalo, NY 14260, USAsgabriel@buffalo.edu mcgreen2@buffalo.edu eshanaid@buffalo.eduhttps://arts-sciences.buffalo.edu/psychology/faculty/faculty-directory/gabriel.htmlwww.buffalo.edu/cas/communication/faculty/green.html.

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Summary

Imaginary worlds appeal by fulfilling the human need for social connection. Immersion in these story worlds combats loneliness and rejection by fostering a sense of belonging.

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Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Social Sciences
  • Media Studies

Background:

  • Humans possess a fundamental need for social connection and belonging.
  • Loneliness and rejection are significant negative psychological states.
  • Imaginary worlds, such as those in literature and gaming, are widely consumed.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the psychological appeal of imaginary worlds.
  • To investigate the role of social connection in the engagement with fictional narratives.
  • To understand how immersion in story worlds impacts feelings of belonging and buffers against negative social experiences.

Main Methods:

  • This study presents a theoretical argument.
  • It synthesizes existing research in social psychology and media consumption.
  • The argument focuses on the psychological mechanisms underlying immersion and social connection.

Main Results:

  • Imaginary worlds derive appeal from fulfilling the innate human need for social connection.
  • Immersion in story worlds cultivates a sense of social connection with characters and in-world groups.
  • This fulfillment of the need to belong acts as a psychological buffer against rejection and loneliness.

Conclusions:

  • The appeal of imaginary worlds is significantly linked to their ability to satisfy social needs.
  • Engaging with fictional narratives can provide a vicarious sense of community and belonging.
  • Imaginary worlds serve a crucial psychological function in mitigating social isolation and its adverse effects.