What are the roles of talking imaginary friends in stories?

Imaginary friends in stories can be catalysts for character growth. They might introduce new ideas or perspectives to the main character. For instance, they could encourage the character to be more brave or to think outside the box. Sometimes, they are also used to add an element of magic or the supernatural to the story, making it more interesting and engaging for the readers.

Imaginary friends can be companions. For example, in a lonely child's world, they are always there to play and talk. They can also be protectors. Like when a child is scared, the imaginary friend might be brave and keep the child feeling safe.

Talking imaginary friends may also influence the main character's moral growth. They can present different viewpoints and ethical ideas, which makes the main character think about right and wrong. For example, an imaginary friend might persuade the main character not to steal even when they are in a difficult situation.

Friends in stories often play the role of supporters. They are there for the main character during tough times, like when Harry Potter's friends supported him in his fight against Voldemort.

There was a child who had an imaginary friend that was a mermaid. Her name was Ariel (not related to the Disney one). The mermaid would swim with the child in an imaginary ocean. The child would describe how Ariel would show her hidden treasures under the sea. This imaginary friendship made the child very interested in the ocean and marine life.

Common elements include that they are highly personalized. A child will create an imaginary friend that suits their personality and needs. For example, a shy child might have an outgoing imaginary friend. They also tend to be very adaptable. The imaginary friend can fit into any situation the child imagines, whether it's a trip to outer space or a tea party in the garden. And most of the time, they are a positive influence, helping the child to grow in confidence, creativity, and social skills through the interactions, even if they are only in the child's mind.

No. Imaginary friends are creations of the mind, usually by children. They are not the same as ghosts in ghost stories. Ghosts in stories are often depicted as the spirits of the dead, while imaginary friends are just figments of a person's imagination and don't have the same spooky connotations related to death and the afterlife.

One benefit is sharing joys. For example, when you have good news like getting a promotion, talking to friends makes the joy double. Another is getting support. If you're facing a tough time, friends can offer advice and a shoulder to cry on. Also, it helps in expanding knowledge. Friends might have different experiences and knowledge areas, so chatting can expose you to new things.

In children's stories, imaginary friends are often cute and friendly. They might be small, colorful creatures that talk in a high - pitched voice. For example, in some picture books, the imaginary friend is a little fairy or a talking animal that accompanies the child protagonist everywhere.

One scary imaginary friend story is about a child who had an 'imaginary' friend named Red. Red would always whisper mean things to the child at night. The child would wake up screaming. Another is where a girl's 'friend' would move things around in her room when she wasn't looking. It made her feel like she was being haunted.