The hidden danger in Labubu babies! Beware of the new craze that's spreading rapidly among children! It's disrupting psychology.
The popularity of labubu figurines, which appear quite unusual and far from cute, among children is concerning for experts. Such toys trigger dopamine-based addiction through the desire to possess. Experts say this is similar to reward-seeking behaviors like gambling or gaming addiction. It's also noted that the figurines are linked to the pursuit of visibility and prestige through "ownership" on social media, thus serving psychological processes such as belonging and identity construction.
"IT SPREADS MUCH FASTER ON SOCIAL MEDIA"According to a report in Türkiye Newspaper, Dr. Uğur Karabağ, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist at Moodist Psychiatry and Neurology Hospital, said, "Barbie in the '90s, Pokemon in the 2000s, LOL dolls in the 2010s... Labubu is a current link in this cycle. But the difference is this: These figures now spread much faster through social media and stimulate the dopamine system much more intensely with interactive content. While they may seem like cute figures, the impact of these characters on children isn't just entertainment."
"IT MAY TURN INTO A STATUS SYMBOL"Karabağ emphasized that childhood is a period when identity is shaped and the search for belonging is intense, saying, "For a child, owning an object isn't just 'having a toy.' With that object, they can more easily integrate into their group of friends, feel like they're not falling behind on social media and in school, and perceive themselves as valuable and special. Imagine being valued for owning that toy. Figures like Labubu can target these needs and become a 'status symbol.'"
Elif Sena Özata, a psychologist at Moodist Psychiatry and Neurology Hospital, stated that Labubu figures, a life-sized toy of which recently sold for $150,000 at an auction in China, have become a fascination not only for children but also for adults. She said, "Owning a rare or special-edition Labubu demonstrates a person's understanding of cultural trends and their shared understanding of certain social groups. Adults name these figures, personalize them, and share them on social media. They believe they are expressing themselves and gaining acceptance in their social circles this way. Social acceptance due to owning such objects increases dopamine release, leading people to repeat purchasing behavior. This process can lead to uncontrolled spending, regret, and financial losses in the long run."
FAMILIES ATTENTION!Expert Dr. Uğur Karabağ, who stated that families are too easily swayed by such trends to make their children happy, said, "What truly matters is emotional guidance. Raising a child's inner awareness with questions like, 'Why do you want something?', 'How do you feel when you have it?', 'How would you feel if you didn't have it?' is the most powerful parenting tool. Children should be taught not only to 'take,' but also to wait, be patient, and manage their desires."
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