Influence of Parasocial Relationship on Coping Strategies, Mental Well-Being, And Social Engagement Among Secondary School Students in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined parasocial relationships and their association with coping strategies, mental well being, and social engagement among secondary school students in Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was adopted. The population consisted of 6,639 Senior Secondary School Two (SS2) students from 26 public secondary schools, from which a sample of 253 students was selected using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire measuring parasocial relationships, coping strategies, mental well-being, and social engagement. Mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions, while Pearson Product–Moment Correlation was used to test the hypotheses. The findings revealed that students commonly develop parasocial relationships with media personalities and frequently engage with media content as a coping strategy during stressful situations. Students also reported positive emotional experiences such as improved mood, relaxation, and reduced loneliness when engaging with media figures. However, frequent media engagement was also associated with patterns of reduced face to-face social interaction. The findings highlight the need for balanced media engagement and supportive environments that promote healthy coping and social interaction among adolescents. The study recommended that Schools should incorporate media literacy programmes that help students understand the role of media personalities and encourage responsible media engagement.