Parents Need To Understand, This Is The Reason Why Teenagers Are Obsessed In Their Idol

Illustration of the reasons why teenagers are obsessed with their idols (Freepic/master1305)

YOGYAKARTA Feelings of joy and loud screams may be complicated when teenage children meet their idols. Sincere and possible performance for adults is considered a little naive, sometimes it makes many teenagers feel heartbroken if they don't see their idols. Sometimes they express themselves as number one fans or I love you. They are called fandom which is filled with admiration that can't speak when they meet their idol.

Child and adolescent specialist critic Alan Ravitz says that children have a rich fantasy life. When fantasy is coupled to an independent push, worshiping his idol seems irrational it is possible. According to Ravitz's explanation reported by Child Mind Institute, when children navigate themselves from their parents, it is a natural part of development and growth. At that time, teenage children build psychological independence.

Whatever the culture, they need someone who can be used as a role model, apart from their parents, as guidance and role model to become an adult. In today's culture, the role model in question is often pop stars, actors, even athletes," said doctor Ravitz.

For adults, the phenomenon of teenage children who are obsessed with their idols may be considered confusing. But this is not trivial because it is part of the youth's efforts in their healthy development. Many scientific research is also carried out from this phenomenon.

Idolization of pop stars has unique characteristics for teenagers. This provides a basis for self-expression, self-identity construction, and independence achievements, citing the article Adolescent Idol of Pop Singers: Causes, Expressions, and Reliance.

So, is it not dangerous if a teenager is obsessed with his idol? Assistant professor at the University of Social Work, University of Toronto, Dr. Lin Fang reminded. That having an idol for teenagers may play an important role in marking his growth as a teenager. But parents need to pay attention to how dark the side of their children's obsession is when idolizing something or someone.

Girls who idolize celebrities very much tend to follow other aspects of commercial culture and may become too lecherous. Pressure coming from celebrities with perfect bodies can lead to unrealistic body images and may trigger eating disorders, which could harm children," Lang explained.

It doesn't stop there, idolizing stars can also confiscate a child's life so they ignore relationships in real life and isolate themselves from their friends. Not to mention the bad influence they read from newspapers about the bad behavior of their idols, which makes children think that getting drunk and faint, driving recklessly, and engaging in violent behavior are normal.

While not generalizable, each case is very likely to be different. Pesar Ravitz, it is important for parents to remember that celebrity idolization, especially pop stars, is normal. Recommendations from Ravitz, don't give encouragement, keep an eye on it, and be prepared to intervene if your child experiences major changes in his mood or behavior.

'Watch out for your child. Get to know your child. And love your child. Even though it's part of this development is about separation, you're still parents. The most important thing is to always be there for your child, Ravitz's message.

Changes when a teenager is obsessed with his idol, which affect his life, mood, and behavior, can be intervened by parents in a simple way. Like sitting with your child and showing a sincere interest in the artists and music they love. This process not only opens up opportunities for parents to get to know their children better, but can strengthen the bonds their children need at an important time in their lives.