https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7240-2242
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ABSTRACT
There is a need to delve into major subgroups among U.S. Latina/o/xs and identify emerging patterns in their understanding and consumption of new media. This study used six small-group interviews to explore the fluidity of parasocial dynamics with podcasts among young Latina/o/x podcast listeners experiencing the COVID-19 lockdown. Recent literature has focused on the parasocial nature of dynamics, relationships, and emotional connections listeners develop with their favorite podcasts. While we found that there are unique circumstances of listening among young Latina/o/x listeners, such as living with family and working during school, their podcast interests are driven by identification with hosts, age, and gender more than ethnic parameters. The conceptual acronym EASY (Engaged Experience, Accessible Authenticity, Socialization in Solitude, and Youth and YouTube) was developed to interpret pandemic listening among Latina/o/x podcast users.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Arthur D. Soto-Vásquez
Arthur D. Soto-Vasquez is an Assistant Professor of Communication at Texas A&M International University. His research interests include identity making in online media, Latinx communication, and popular culture.
M. Olguta Vilceanu
M. Olguta Vilceanu is an Associate Professor at Rowan University. Her research includes consumer behavior and podcast advertising; brand communication and news media; strategic and crisis communication; and diversity, equity and inclusion with a focus on medical students.
Kristine C. Johnson
Kristine Johnson is an Associate Professor at Rowan University. She likes to research audience responses associated with podcasts, podcast advertising, and online dating.