The Hidden Psychological Effects of the “Labubu Doll” Trend

“Ali, my daughter spends hours with that big Labubu doll. At first I thought it was just harmless fun, but now she barely talks to us. Should I be worried?”

This was a recent question from one of my clients, Sara, a mother concerned about the new Labubu doll trend that has exploded on social media. While at first glance these oversized plush toys look like nothing more than innocent fun, as a psychologist I believe it’s important to explore their potential negative psychological effects — especially on children and young adults.

🔹 Why the Labubu Doll Became Popular

The Labubu doll trend is booming because:

It’s cute, oversized, and visually striking, perfect for TikTok and Instagram videos.

It gives a sense of comfort and security, almost like a giant stuffed pet.

It taps into the human need for companionship and touch.

But like any cultural phenomenon, the story doesn’t end with harmless fun. There are subtle risks when such objects become central to emotional life.

🧠 Psychological Risks of Over-Attachment to the Labubu Doll

1. Emotional Dependence

Spending too much time with the doll can replace human interaction. Children may begin to rely on it for comfort rather than developing healthy coping skills or relationships with real people.

2. Escaping Reality

Some young adults use the doll to escape loneliness or anxiety. While short-term relief feels good, long-term avoidance can worsen social withdrawal and low self-esteem.

3. Reinforcing Childish Coping Styles

The doll encourages regression into childlike comfort. For teenagers and adults, this can delay emotional maturity, keeping them stuck in patterns of avoidance instead of resilience.

4. Comparison & Social Media Pressure

On platforms like TikTok, owning a Labubu doll has become a status symbol. Teens may feel pressured to buy one just to “fit in,” leading to feelings of inadequacy if they can’t. This taps into the cycle of comparison anxiety.

5. Risk of Loneliness Intensifying

Ironically, instead of reducing loneliness, relying on the doll can deepen it. Over time, the person may feel more disconnected from real people because their comfort zone revolves around the doll.

🔹 Real Client Example

Sara’s daughter, age 13, started bringing the doll everywhere: to the living room, to bed, even to family meals. At first it looked cute, but soon she avoided talking with friends. When stressed, she clutched the doll instead of expressing her feelings.

This pattern showed that the doll had become not just a toy, but an emotional crutch. With guidance, Sara set boundaries (the doll stays in her room) and encouraged real conversations. Slowly, her daughter began reaching out to friends again.

🔹 Healthy vs. Unhealthy Use

Not all use of the Labubu doll is harmful.

Healthy use: occasional comfort, decoration, playful moments.

Unhealthy use: daily dependence, isolation, replacing people with the doll.

The key difference is whether the doll supports life or replaces life.

❓ Questions to Ask Yourself

If you or your child has a Labubu doll, ask:

Am I using this doll to avoid real problems?

Do I feel anxious without it?

Is it replacing time I should spend with friends or family?

Does it make me feel better about myself, or just less lonely temporarily?

These questions reveal whether the attachment is harmless or potentially damaging.

💬 My Perspective as a Psychologist

I’m Ali Andi, psychologist.

Trends like the Labubu doll aren’t “evil,” but they can mask deeper needs:

The need for connection

The need for belonging

The need for emotional safety

Instead of depending on an object, the real healing comes from human connection and emotional growth.

Dolls can give comfort.

But only people can give love, meaning, and long-term support.

🌀 Final Thoughts

The Labubu doll can be a fun accessory. But when it becomes the main source of comfort, it risks stunting emotional development, increasing social isolation, and reinforcing anxiety.

Balance is the solution: enjoy trends, but stay mindful of their deeper impact.

📌 Need Guidance?

🌐 Website: ali-andi.ir

📱 Free WhatsApp Consultation (direct with me): +98 999 127 0128

📸 Instagram (videos & psychology tips): instagram.com/ali.andi.psy

✨ Remember: It’s not about avoiding the Labubu doll.

It’s about ensuring it doesn’t replace the real relationships that truly heal us.