This is a very interesting paper that talks exactly about this phenomena. www.atlantis-press.com/proceedings/...
Ultimately, the internet and fandom has existed as a form of escapism to soothe anxiety for a long time. Even before the time of the internet we have worshiped and turned people --
The aim of this paper is to look at how being a fan and idolizing celebrities helps young people cope with feelings of anxiety and uncertainty about their personal identity. The paper analyses how soc...
