"Alexa, what do you mean to me?”: A scoping review and model of parasocial relationship formation with smart speakers

Griffin, Charlotte E ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2549-859X and Powell, G ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6793-0446 (2025) "Alexa, what do you mean to me?”: A scoping review and model of parasocial relationship formation with smart speakers. Behaviour & Information Technology. pp. 1-27. doi:doi.org/10.1080/0144929X.2025.2492701 (In Press)

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Abstract

This scoping review evaluates the literature on the social aspects of smart speaker use, with a focus on how parasocial relationships form and their outcomes. A key contribution of this review is the proposal of a ‘Parasocial Relationship Spectrum’, which classifies the types of relationships users develop with smart speakers. Additionally, we establish isolation and older age as predictors of parasocial relationships with smart speakers, while identifying emotional comfort and reduced loneliness as key outcomes. A major gap in existing research is the lack of long-term, targeted studies on the full range of effects from smart speaker-based interventions, particularly in vulnerable populations. To address this, we integrate findings from parasocial and human-computer interaction research to propose a novel framework—the ASAP Pathway (Anthropomorphic – Social Agent – Parasocial)—as a mechanism explaining how users develop parasocial relationships with smart speakers. This framework offers a structured approach to further studying interactions with smart speakers and their outcomes. Finally, we emphasize the need for future research to refine and validate the ASAP Pathway, ensuring that smart speaker-based social interventions maximize benefits while minimizing risks. By doing so, this review provides theoretical advancements and practical implications for implementing smart speakers in social and therapeutic contexts.

Item Type:	Article
Article Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Parasocial; Smart speaker; Social technology; Loneliness; Human-computer interaction; Anthropomorphic
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Divisions:	Schools and Research Institutes > School of Education and Science
Depositing User:	Charlie Griffin
Date Deposited:	16 Jun 2025 11:33
Last Modified:	16 Jun 2025 11:45
URI:	https://eprints.glos.ac.uk/id/eprint/15124

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