by Mayv 'SpearBourne' Amaia

Created on: November 30, 2009   Last Updated: May 02, 2011

Why is it that a real-life woman can develop such a strong attachment to a character who exists only in the world of fiction?

One, of course, never truly "falls in love" with these characters as she only knows the personality traits with which the writer or actor has imbued them.

That is not to say that the affection is not real, nor does it discount the validity or depth of the emotions she feels, even though the object of her desire can never reciprocate those feelings; her emotions are entirely real.

It may be more accurate, though, to say that a woman falls in love at a character, rather than in love, in a manner similar to the infatuation one can develop for a public figure or celebrity one has never met.

These artificial people, who exist only within books, films, or television shows, may represent an ideal, the perfect mate we would love to have. It goes back to fairy tales, dreaming of Prince Charming sweeping us away and living happily ever after.

When we grow up, we realise that no one is perfect, but two people can be perfect for each other, an ideal match, equals.

The character that a woman falls for may be a flawed hero, one whose imperfections make him that much more endearing.

Take, for example, Dr. Gregory House, portrayed so brilliantly by Hugh Laurie. House lacks tact, is rarely polite, avoids socialising except for with a select few, is manipulative and misanthropic, and is not above bending or even completely disregarding rules and laws to suit his own agenda.

Often enough, this is for the good of his patients, or rather, so House can solve the diagnostic puzzle. Even saving a life boosts his own ego because he is proven correct yet again.

With all his faults, Gregory House possesses an amazing intellect, seemingly unsurpassed within the show's universe. He gives voice to the things many of us don't have the nerve to say.

Despite, or perhaps because of, his imperfections, he is beloved by millions the world over.

So maybe these characters represent something in ourselves that we wish we were better able to present to others, if it exists in us at all.

The appeal may lie in the simple fact that, because they exist solely in a fictional world, they can never hurt us. They will never lie to us or cheat on us. They will love us unconditionally and be there for us at a moment's notice, always at our beck and call, albeit only within our own minds.

It could be that a woman fixates on a fictional character as a way of guarding against vulnerability and potential heartbreak.

Perhaps something is missing in her life and a constructed figure serves as a place holder of sorts until that need is fulfilled by something, or someone, more substantial.

Or, in the case of a long-distance relationship or other situation where her significant other is not always available, a fictional character can provide a source of stability and romance.

A woman can have an affair with someone more attentive, more open, more of anything she needs without physically cheating.

A fantasy lover like this can safely supplement her real life, so long as it does not interfere with her day to day activities or prevent her from interacting with the people who are actually around her.

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