Study suggests YouTubers cheer people up more than casual friends

One-sided relationships with YouTubers are more emotionally fulfilling than talking to casual friends, a new study suggests. The University of Essex research discovered people feel watching online stars like Zoella, KSI and PewDiePie can cheer them up more than weak-tie acquaintances—like neighbors or co-workers. Dr. Veronica Lamarche, from the Department of Psychology, also found people feel liked, respected and understood by fictional characters. The study suggests watching online celebrities offers positive reinforcement—despite them not being able to respond. Dr. Lamarche hopes the research—published in Scientific Reports—will shine a light on Read More