A need for comfort

Is it normal for one to look at fictional characters and go: “I want to be his child”? To yearn for the fatherly affection I can’t remember receiving?To imagine scenarios of getting affection from people, fictional characters as well. To just yearn for affection, comfort.

It’s weird, I know. To like someone only because you think they would be a good father towards you. But that is just me, I’ve grown a mindset of liking only male characters who may be good father figures. I just want to have a father. An affectionate one. My father is affectionate, he is. I am not saying he is bad, but. I just want affection.

I could go on rants, and stupid delusions about what I would want a fictional character to do with me. And all of it is just affection. Not going to go into the details of that or anything, a little bit too insane to rant on.

But is it normal? Too look at one character, a character I would analyse. And then I would realise they are exactly like me. Their emotions, their unique little personalities. I would simply just think: “I want them as my father.” It would be from just liking how they act and look to: I want them as my father so much.

Is it normal to act like this? To have this stupid yearning for affection. Fatherly affection in fact. Any other form of affection from people I dislike would repulse me.

Hi Leow

Thank you for your courage to share your feelings. I commend your honesty and openness. Firstly please be assured that the feelings you have described are fully understandable and I believe fairly common.

It’s normal to seek affection and comfort, especially if you feel like you didn’t receive enough in your childhood. Fictional characters can represent idealized versions of what we desire in relationships, including fatherly affection.

What you described is a “parasocial relationship.” It’s a one-sided emotional connection with a fictional character or celebrity, often driven by a desire for comfort, guidance, or affection.

Your analysis of characters and seeing yourself in them is also normal. It’s called “identification,” where we connect with characters who share similar traits, emotions, or experiences.

Remember, it’s okay to have these feelings! They might stem from unmet emotional needs, but acknowledging and understanding them can help you address those needs in healthier ways. Speaking to a therapist may be a safe way to explore these feelings further or discuss ways to cultivate affectionate relationships in your life.
Please take good care :slight_smile:

1 Like