Rachel Reimer

Date of Award

2019

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Social Sciences

First Advisor

Cottrell, Catherine

Area of Concentration

Psychology

Abstract

Since the invention of Superman in 1939, comic books have majorly influenced and have been influenced by the moral ideals of social and political movements. This study is designed to better understand the psychological impact of superheroes on the avid consumer via two routes. Through the theoretical lens of parasocial interaction, superheroes are viewed as a partner within a one-sided social exchange. Alternatively, the theory of identification depicts superheroes as a model for emulation. Using a survey method, participants were asked a series of questions regarding both parasocial and identification behaviors with superhero characters, as well as demographics information and short essay questions regarding personal opinions on superheroism. The results show strong evidence towards both theories of superhero interaction, as well as personal accounts of comic books used as a mythological corpus or moral guide. The implications of these findings show superheroes as influencers on behavior and morality. Future studies should explore potential use of superhero chevrons and iconography as moral primes.

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