Parasocial Interaction within the Polca Fandom Culture Centred on the Polcasan Mascot on Social Media Platform X

Intan; Meistra Budiasa

doi:10.55681/seikat.v5i4.3600

Authors

Intan Universitas 17 Agustus 1945 Jakarta
Meistra Budiasa University of 17 Agustus 1945 Jakarta

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55681/seikat.v5i4.3600

Keywords:

Fandom, Parasocial Interaction, Polcasan, TayNew, X Social Media

Abstract

Abstract : This study aims to analyze fans' parasocial interactions with Polcasan within the TayNew fandom. A qualitative approach with a constructivist paradigm was employed. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with three active members of the Polca fandom and online observation of interactions on the social media platform X. Data were analyzed using the Miles, Huberman, and Saldana (2014) model, consisting of data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification. The findings identified four main themes: the construction of Polcasan's identity as a social figure, fans' parasocial interactions with Polcasan, the manifestation of parasocial interactions in fan behavior, and the symbolic meaning of Polcasan within the TayNew fandom. Polcasan is perceived as a social figure through personification, which fosters emotional attachment and encourages various forms of fan participation. The study concludes that Polcasan functions not only as a mascot but also as a medium that strengthens the emotional bond between TayNew and their fan community.

Keywords : Fandom, Parasocial Interaction, Polcasan, TayNew, X Social Media.

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