Why Do We See Ourselves in Anime or Movie Characters?
How many times have you taken a test like “Which Naruto character are you?”, “Who are you from Stranger Things?”, or “Which Attack on Titan hero matches your personality?” Maybe you already know you’re “a bit of Zoro, some Kakashi, and just a dash of Levi.” But why do we even want to see ourselves in fictional characters? Why do imaginary heroes trigger real emotions in us?
In this article, let’s explore:
- why we connect with on-screen characters
- how pop culture shapes our self-image
- what this says about us - and if there’s any psychology behind it
1. The Psychology of Projection: We See Ourselves in Others
We naturally project our inner traits onto the outside world. A favorite character often becomes a “mirror” for our hidden fears, dreams, or qualities we may not fully recognize in ourselves.
For example:
- someone afraid to show emotion may relate to Sasuke.
- someone who longs to be strong yet kind - to Tanjiro.
- someone who’s experienced loss may feel deeply connected to a character like Eren or Wanda Maximoff.
This isn’t just fan behavior. It’s emotional mirroring.
2. Characters as Emotional Templates
Anime, series, and movies often feature strong, clearly defined characters - which makes them easier to connect with and compare ourselves to. They act decisively, evolve over time, struggle, sacrifice, and make bold choices we might only imagine ourselves making.
They become emotional templates — role models we start to mentally try on:
- “How would I act in their place?”
- “Would I be strong enough to choose that?”
- “Maybe I could be brave, loyal, mysterious, or wise too?”
3. Pop Culture as Modern Mythology
In the past, people looked to myths and legends - filled with gods, monsters, and symbolic heroes. Today, we have Marvel, Studio Ghibli, Attack on Titan, The Matrix, The Lord of the Rings.
These are our modern archetypes, shaping our collective imagination.
When we relate to fictional characters, it’s a contemporary form of finding meaning and identity.
A character with a wing on his back and a scar on his soul is more than just an anime hero. He’s a symbol - a reflection of someone walking through their own inner battles.
4. “I’m just like…” — How It Affects Identity
Teens, young adults - and let’s be honest, many of us at any age - shape our identity by comparing ourselves to others. Characters from beloved stories offer a safe space for self-exploration:
- we learn our limits through them
- we discover which traits we admire
- we choose moral guidelines
- and we subconsciously model our behavior after them
It’s not “childish” - it’s a natural part of emotional development.
5. Social Media Amplifies the Connection
TikTok, Instagram, YouTube - all of them have turned character identification into a trend. The meme “I’m literally him/her” isn’t just a joke - it reflects how deeply we integrate pop culture into our everyday selves.
Plus, when we see others associating with the same characters, we feel a sense of belonging. That shared connection strengthens our emotional bond with both the character and the community.
6. And What About Quizzes? It’s More Than Just Fun
Online quizzes like “Which Jujutsu Kaisen character are you?” or “Which Marvel hero are you?” act as interactive tools for self-discovery - in a light and playful form. They combine several psychological effects:
- self-projection onto a fictional framework
- getting “feedback” about ourselves
- emotional satisfaction from recognition
- a sense of being “seen” or “understood”
Even when it feels like a game - it’s built on real psychological mechanisms.
Conclusion
We don’t relate to characters because we believe they’re real - we relate because we feel something true in their stories. In every hero, there’s a piece of us. In every narrative, a mirror.
As long as pop culture exists, we’ll keep searching for ourselves among warriors, wizards, detectives, superheroes, and ordinary people with extraordinary hearts.
Want to know which anime or movie character best represents you? We’ve got the tests for that - but don’t be surprised if the result simply reminds you of who you’ve always been.