The Psychology of our Relationship with Fictional Villains

Walkington, Zoe; Pike, Graham and Campbell, Siobhan (2024). The Psychology of our Relationship with Fictional Villains. In: Literature Matters Conference, 4-6 Nov 2024, Open University, Online.

Abstract

Imaginative literature often features villainous characters, especially in the genre of crime fiction. Psychological research suggests that the ‘parasocial’ relationships we form with characters from the books we read, can affect us psychologically in many ways. For example, reading fiction can increase our empathic responding towards others (Walkington, Ashton Wigman and Bowles, 2020); increase our social skills (Mar and Oatley, 2008); and fulfil the human need to belong (Gabriel and Young, 2011). In this lightening talk we will introduce a new Open Learn course, developed by authors at The Open University which includes interviews with crime writers such as Ian Rankin and Val McDermid; writing exercises designed to give the visceral feel of character creation; and research which considers the impacts of hanging out with fictional murderers and villains on the readers of literature who consume them.

Viewing alternatives

Item Actions

Export

You can export this page using these formats