Abstract: This study examines how adolescents perceive the influence of digital reference figuresby comparing followers and non-followers on social networks. Grounded in socialidentity, self-categorization, and parasocial interaction theories, the analysis identifiesfour perceived effects of influence: decision (informative value and purchase intention),imitation (alignment with influencers' thinking and lifestyles), interference (disruptionsin offline activities), and integration (feelings of belonging within peer groups). Asegmented sample of 2066 adolescents aged 12-18 in Spain was analyzed to exploreinter-group differences (followers vs. non-followers) and intra-group variations (gender,age, and time spent online). The findings revealed that 87% of the adolescents followinfluencers, with integration emerging as the most perceived effect, decision moderately, and imitation the least. Notably, non-followers perceive higher levels of interference and are more likely to attribute decisional influence to others. Overall, parasocialdynamics appear as a cultural mechanism that fosters social integration while increasing awareness of potential offline interference.
