paratoothers

Paratoothers is a term that has emerged in certain online communities, particularly within discussions related to parasocial relationships and fictional characters. It refers to individuals who develop a strong, often obsessive, affection for a fictional character, extending their feelings beyond typical fan appreciation to a level that can resemble romantic or platonic attachment. This attachment is directed towards characters who are not real and cannot reciprocate these emotions.

The concept of paratoothers highlights the complex ways people engage with media and the fictional worlds presented within it. While parasocial relationships are generally understood as one-sided connections with real public figures, paratoothers adapts this idea to fictional entities. This can involve extensive role-playing, creating fan fiction that deeply explores the character's personality, or engaging in online discussions that treat the character as if they were a real person with whom the paratoother shares a genuine bond.

The term itself is a portmanteau, combining "para-" (referring to parallel or beyond) with "toothers," suggesting a connection or relationship. It is important to note that paratoothers is not a formally recognized psychological term and is primarily used within fan subcultures to describe a specific type of intense fandom. While some may find these attachments harmless and a creative outlet, others might view them with concern depending on the degree to which they impact an individual's real-world interactions and well-being. The development of strong emotional connections to fictional characters is a diverse and multifaceted aspect of human psychology and fandom.