Lý do Cambridge Dictionary công bố 'Parasocial' là từ của năm 2025 | VTV24

Key Concepts

• Parasocial Relationship: A one-sided relationship where an individual develops a sense of connection and intimacy with a public figure, influencer, or even an AI chatbot, despite never having met them in person.
• Digital Life: The increasing integration of online activities and technologies into everyday life.
• AI (Artificial Intelligence): Computer systems capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence.
• Digital Economy: An economy driven by digital technologies and online platforms.
• Content Creators: Individuals who produce and share digital content, often leveraging parasocial relationships for engagement.
• Social Media: Online platforms that facilitate the creation and sharing of user-generated content and social networking.
• Traditional Relationships: Interpersonal connections formed through face-to-face interactions and established social structures.
• Consumer Responsibility: The need for individuals to critically evaluate and manage the information they consume in the digital age.

Parasocial: Cambridge Dictionary's Word of the Year 2025 and its Implications

The term "Parasocial" has been selected as Cambridge Dictionary's Word of the Year for 2025. This term describes the one-sided connection that many people have with celebrities, influencers, or even AI chatbots, despite never having met them in person. The concept itself dates back to 1956, when sociologists used it to describe how television audiences perceived TV hosts as close friends. Experts believe that 2025 marks an explosion of parasocial relationships, particularly in the context of digital life, where online interactions and AI are becoming increasingly pervasive.

The Significance of "Parasocial" as Word of the Year

1. Re-emergence and New Context: The selection of "Parasocial" highlights the re-emergence and repurposing of an older term within a new societal context. This signifies a societal recognition of a different level of social interaction, especially with the rise of digital-based interactions.

2. Evolving Communication Needs: The term reflects a shift in social communication needs. Younger generations, in particular, seek communication channels they perceive as reliable and accessible at any time, often preferring them over traditional relationships.

3. Global Societal Concern: The official dissemination of this term through media channels indicates a global concern about a phenomenon that was previously less recognized: people following, admiring, or even worshipping individuals they have never met in real life. This is amplified by new digital tools.

4. Driving Force of Digital Media: The widespread adoption of "Parasocial" is significantly driven by new digital media platforms, which facilitate and accelerate these one-sided connections.

Parasocial Relationships in Vietnam

1. Global Trend Alignment: Vietnam's rapid development in digital technology places it within the global trend of parasocial relationships. While precise measurement against global benchmarks is difficult, the profound impact on the younger generation is undeniable.

2. Digital Economy Influence: The digital economy plays a crucial role in the prevalence of parasocial relationships. Businesses and content creators recognize the potential of these "pseudo-social" interactions, viewing them as a viable business and content dissemination strategy.

3. Rapid Growth and Potential Decline: Vietnam's fast-paced digital development means that trends like parasocial relationships can emerge and potentially fade quickly. This rapid cycle warrants further discussion and analysis.

The Dual Nature of Parasocial Relationships: Danger vs. Solution

1. The "Living a Lie" Argument: Some view one-sided relationships as a danger, leading individuals to live inauthentically and disconnect from real-world interactions.

2. A Solution for Loneliness: Conversely, others see these relationships as a potential solution for individuals experiencing loneliness, offering a sense of connection and guidance.

3. Deepening Connection and Real-World Deficiencies: The phenomenon is likened to the popular concept of "Idol" worship, where individuals feel a constant companionship with their idols, integrating them into their lives as organic members. This suggests a potential deficiency in real-world relationships, including family ties, which are undergoing significant shifts globally and in Vietnam.

4. Urbanization and Digital Dominance: In urban areas, the pervasive influence of technology and digital media shapes how people transact, consume culture, and entertain themselves. This creates an ecosystem where individuals must become responsible consumers of information to navigate the digital flow effectively.

5. Long-Term vs. Short-Term Impact: The long-term benefits and drawbacks of these relationships are difficult to ascertain in brief discussions.

6. Historical Precedents: While the term "Parasocial" is newly prominent, the underlying phenomenon is not new. Historical examples include religious devotion to figures never met and the emotional investment in fictional characters from literature. Digital platforms have accelerated and intensified these connections.

The Future of Human Connection in the Age of AI and Social Media

1. Hybrid Mode of Connection: The future of human connection will likely involve a hybrid approach, akin to a vehicle running on both traditional fuel and electricity. Individuals will need to manage multiple modes of interaction simultaneously.

2. Maturation of Digital Ecosystem: As technology managers, markets, and consumers mature, regulations and mechanisms will likely emerge to create sustainable and healthy digital ecosystems. Unhealthy or unsustainable digital phenomena are unlikely to dominate and influence real-world relationships.

3. Cycles of Growth and Adaptation: Social media and digital tools have historically experienced periods of rapid growth followed by adaptation and integration into serving human needs.

4. Challenges for Societal Operation: Without careful consideration and balance from researchers, criminologists, and policymakers, the unchecked influence of digital interactions poses a significant challenge to societal functioning.

Conclusion

The designation of "Parasocial" as the Word of the Year 2025 underscores the profound changes in how we interact and build relationships. These one-sided connections can serve as a lifeline for loneliness but also risk diminishing real-world relationships. It is crucial to remain vigilant and cultivate meaningful, authentic social connections that bring genuine value to our lives.