The Society for Media Psychology & Technology

Division 46 of The American Psychological Association

New From The Amplifier Magazine

Via our Fall/Winter 2025 Issue

President's Column: A Year of Stewardship, Momentum, and Collective Storytelling

By Kristian A Alomá, PhD

As I write this final message in my last issue of The Amplifier as President of Division 46—the Society for Media Psychology and Technology—I am struck by just how much this community has shaped me, challenged me, supported me, and invited me to grow. Leadership is never a solo undertaking, but in this Division it is especially communal. We lead together. We work together. We imagine together…

Editor’s Column Parasocial, Rage Bait, 6-7, and Slop: Reflecting on the 2025 Words of the Year

By Perry A. Reed, PhD

Each year, several dictionaries select a “Word of the Year,” meant to capture the zeitgeist and define a cultural trend of the past 12 months. Interestingly, though perhaps not shockingly, two of the 2025 words-of-the-year have been hot topics in media psychology for the past several years. And another relates heavily to our ongoing research on meme culture and virality in social media…

Featured Article The Current State of Parasocial Theory

By Gayle S. Stever, PhD

Recent years have seen a number of publications that focus on parasocial theory. Indeed, parasocial was one of the finalists for Oxford’s “word of the year” in 2023. Most notable among recent publications are the Oxford Encyclopedia of Parasocial Experiences…

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SMPT offers a unique community for professionals who want to understand, shape, and advance the rapidly evolving intersection of psychology, media, and technology. Membership provides access to cutting-edge research, networking opportunities, and resources that help psychologists stay at the forefront of how media influences human behavior.

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Explore Our Awards

SMPT offers a range of awards that recognize outstanding contributions at the intersection of psychology, media, and technology. These honors celebrate excellence in research, practice, leadership, and student achievement, highlighting individuals whose work is shaping the future of media psychology.

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“SMPT proudly welcomes self-nominations for all of our awards, and we encourage members at every career stage— and across all areas of interest—to put themselves forward. Your work and contributions matter, and we want to celebrate the full range of talent within our community.”

What We’re All About

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Fresh, Current Takes With Emerging Research

Our publications—highlighted by The Amplifier Magazine—are designed to give space for important new work in the field.

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A Robust Presence at the APA Convention

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Networking & Socializing Opportunities

With service opportunities across multiple commitees—as well as multiple online and in-person events—we aim to connect scholars.

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Recognition for Important Contributions

Our expansive annual award slate helps shine a light on the incredible work our members are doing to move the field forward.

The Society for Media Psychology & Technology

Division 46 of the American Psychological Association

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