Is your child’s celebrity crush out of control?

Tweens and teens enjoy time on their screens either watching You Tube, engaging on Facebook or feasting on videos on TikTok or other social media. They have a variety of social networks to choose from and this is where their admiration for the stars starts. Celebrity obsession is a natural part of growing up. From their celebrity crush, they get cues on how to dress, look and act. But in a world where celebs are no longer limited to actresses and musicians, how do you know that their obsession is out of control and how do help them choose a positive celebrity role model?

Is their consumption excessive?

If your child is obsessed with a celebrity to a point that it interferes with their life, then you should be worried. Warning signs of a potentially dangerous celebrity crush come when kids go to extremes and are negatively impacted. They may spend all their money and constantly ask for more money to try look like their favourite stars. If they go to the extent of wanting risky body alterations to imitate their celebrity crush, you need to intervene. The extent of the crush may not be obvious so make time to watch their favourite star so that you can evaluate their behaviour and if it has any influence on them. Ask about the celeb, and determine whether it’s all in fun or her obsession is hindering her. If it interferes with her sleep, homework, social life, self-esteem or relationship with you, then you may be facing a deeper issue.

Managing this phase of your kid’s life

• Take it seriously: You had your celebrity crush back in the day, respect that your children have their own celeb crush. Do not mock their favourite celebrity instead embrace their fav celebrity and get to know them better.
• Support it within reason: Ask what positive influence their crush has and how it impacts their life. If there is a concert in the future, give them money to go and see them. You can go the extra mile, be cool and tag along.
• Talk about what comes up: In their obsessive research of a celeb, kids may turn up titbits – such as a star advocating to legalise marijuana – that they want to discuss with you. Welcome these conversations as an opportunity to impart your values. Even if you disagree, aim to keep the lines of communication open. In the process, create boundaries and let your child respect them.