Reality Shifting among Social Media Users: An Investigation of Psychological Phenomenology

Abstract

Reality Shifting (RS) is a practice that gained traction recently, particularly after the COVID-19 Pandemic. Reality Shifters believe in the existence of multiple realities. Considering that no empirical research has studied this topic, this study emphasizes the exploration of the phenomenology of RS among social media users. Focus Group Discussions were conducted with two groups: a RS Group (6 individuals) and a Non-RS Group (10 individuals). Thematic Analysis was conducted, and a Data Sheet was developed and administered online with other standardised tools to 19 Reality Shifters and 40 Non-Reality Shifters (aged 17 to 30). It indicates that RS may help serve novelty seeking needs through fantasy proneness and parasocial relationships. Social media helps understand and seek resources (like subliminals) for the practice, but seems to have negative consequences (excessive use and adverse online experiences). It has implications to see the role of social media in accessing alternate experiences which could also have an impact on pattern and frequency of social media use.

Keywords

reality shifting social media novelty seeking parasocial

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