The Age of Digital Illusion: Parasocial Relationships and Growing Challenges

There was a time when relationships were understood through eye contact and human presence; today, they are increasingly shaped under the glow of screens. The very technology that connected people across the world has also begun distancing them from their own loved ones. The internet, social media, and artificial intelligence (AI) have undoubtedly made life more convenient, but amid this convenience, society has entered an era of digital illusion—where virtual attachment is replacing genuine human bonds. This virtual attachment, known as a parasocial relationship, is emerging as a significant factor behind the growing possibilities of fraud.

Today, more than five billion people worldwide are connected to social media in one form or another. This figure reflects not just technological expansion, but a profound social transformation. Children, youth, and the elderly—every age group is being carried along in this digital flow. The problem lies not in technology itself, but in its indiscriminate use. The desire for instant results, immediate happiness, and easy solutions has pushed many people to treat AI and social media as guides, advisors, and even emotional support systems.

The Web of Parasocial Relationships

Parasocial relationships are essentially one-sided. An individual becomes emotionally attached to a YouTuber, social media influencer, online speaker, digital platform, or AI chatbot, while the person or system on the other side does not know them personally at all. Gradually, this emotional attachment turns into trust. When such trust crosses the boundaries of reason, the individual becomes vulnerable to misleading claims and poor decisions.

Today, incidents of misinformation through fake videos, deepfake technology, false pamphlets, fabricated images, and emotionally charged stories are increasingly common. Videos are created using someone else’s face and a different voice. Claims of doubling money, curing diseases, arranging marriages, securing jobs, or providing instant solutions to life’s problems can easily mislead people.

The Expanding Nature of Fraud

Fraud today is no longer just a crime; it has become an organized and technologically sophisticated activity. Every day, numerous people suffer financial or psychological losses under the influence of false emotions and virtual relationships. Some lose their lifetime savings, while others are left emotionally shattered. Due to social stigma and fear, many victims hesitate to speak out.

The harsh reality is that truth often appears quiet, while falsehood looks more attractive. Lies are presented with emotional language, soothing music, and technological glamour. Relationships that exist only on screens are hollow from within, yet at times they seem more impactful than real ones.

The Fraying Fabric of Relationships

The most serious consequence of digital illusion is the weakening of human relationships. Marriages, parent-child bonds, sibling ties, friendships, and care for the elderly are all experiencing reduced communication and sensitivity. People living under the same roof are interacting less with each other and more with screens.

If this trend continues, the erosion of empathy in society is inevitable. Human connections will gradually shift from people to machines—a development that poses a serious warning for social balance.

Role of Government and Society

This is not merely an individual issue, but a broader social challenge. There is a pressing need to increase vigilance against misleading information, deepfakes, and emotional manipulation on digital platforms. Effective enforcement of laws, along with technological understanding and public awareness, must go hand in hand.

Public awareness is the greatest need of the hour. Through schools, colleges, village councils, and social platforms, people must be educated to understand that not every attractive message is true. Today, digital literacy is as essential as general education.

New Year – New Resolution

The New Year is not just about changing dates; it is an opportunity for self-reflection and redefining direction. In the coming year, we must commit to:

1. Using technology with wisdom and balance.

2. Verifying every digital message and claim before accepting it.

3. Giving time, communication, and respect to our real relationships.

4. Raising children to be emotionally strong, discerning, and vigilant in favor of truth.

Technology is meant to serve humanity, not to leave it behind. This understanding and awareness can lead us toward a balanced, secure, and sensitive society.

The New Year will truly be new only when we renew the way we think, understand, and live.