The Sparky Phenomena
By Sherri Malouf, PhD - CEO of Strategic Soft Skills Institute
We share stories about our own Pugs, and we have a sense of community and connection through our shared love for these adorable creatures. But what sets Sparky and his Mama apart is the way in which they communicated their story and touched the hearts of thousands of people.
One possible explanation for this phenomenon is the concept of anthropomorphism. Anthropomorphism is the attribution of human characteristics or behaviors to animals or objects. In the case of Sparky, his Mama wrote the updates from Sparky's point of view, giving him a voice and a personality that resonated with people. By humanizing Sparky and presenting his adventures and emotions through his "voice," readers were able to connect on a deeper level and empathize with his experiences.
Furthermore, the writing style of Sparky's Mama played a significant role in capturing the hearts of readers. Authenticity and heartfelt emotions are key factors in creating a compelling narrative. When readers can sense the genuine love and affection behind the words, it creates a powerful emotional response. The ability to elicit such emotions can be attributed to the writer's skill in storytelling and their ability to convey the bond between Sparky and his family.
Additionally, the power of social media and online communities cannot be overlooked. The Facebook group Pug Obsessed provided a platform for like-minded Pug owners to come together, share their stories, and support one another. When Sparky's story was shared within this community, it allowed for an immediate and widespread connection among members. The shared experience of joy, loss, and grief brought strangers from all over the world together, creating a global support network centered around Sparky and his family.
Finally, the concept of oxytocin, as mentioned by researcher Clive Wynne, may also play a role in the intense emotional response to Sparky's story. Oxytocin is a neurochemical associated with bonding and attachment, and it is released when we feel love and connection. The act of looking into the eyes of our dogs, as Dr. Wynne mentions, can trigger the release of oxytocin. By reading about Sparky's adventures and seeing his pictures, readers may have experienced a surge of oxytocin, further strengthening their emotional connection to him and his story.
In conclusion, the Sparky phenomenon can be attributed to a combination of factors including anthropomorphism, the compelling writing style of Sparky's Mama, the power of online communities, and the potential release of oxytocin. These elements came together to create a deep and widespread emotional response, transforming a Facebook group into a loving and supportive global community.
