Is there a psychological disorder based on celebrities?

Question

I am doing a psychology project and i want to do mine on something different. Is there a disorder based on mirroring celebrities, trying to be like them? celebrities being more then role models?

Answer 1

I wouldn't call it a disorder unless the person thinks about being like them day and night. Many people in this world naturally pick someone who they feel they can and do identify with. These celebrities probably have a different personality off screen and are ordinary people. I have 2 people I consider financial mentors. I would be interested a person's definition of role model vs. mentor.



I am sure some people have gone overboard in mimicking their celebrities. How do you distinguish between a passing fad and a disorder?

Answer 2

Delusional disorder will often be accompanied by delusions that one is more powerful or important than they really are. Some go to the extreme, in that they believe they are taking over the identity of someone famous (Mark David Chapman before he killed John Lennon), they are getting the attentions of someone famous (John Hinckley believing he would get the affections of Jodie Foster if he killed President Reagan) or they are the new incarnation of someone famous, usually someone powerful (Jesus, Napoleon, etc.).



Many people with delusional disorder (which is characterized by false beliefs) have no celebrity component to their delusions, but a percentage do.

Answer 3

Short answer--no. You could include something about delusions of reference or grandeur, suggesting the individual thinks someone they don't know (e.g., a celebrity) is taking a special interest in them, or that they have special powers or are an especially important person.



But as for a disorder with symptoms that specifically include impersonating or imitating celebrities, there is no such diagnosable condition.

Answer 4

Obsession Elvis Mania

Answer 5

haha, like that psycho with the octuplets and thinks shes angelina jolie??



i'm not sure. if you want to do something about celebreties, one thing i find very interesting is like fame whores, the people who thrive off media attention (generally talentless z-list celebs). check out what that rehab reality show dr. (dr. drew??) is researching... that sort of thing.



good luck with your project!

Answer 6

yeah, a superiority complex or other forms of schizophrenia where a person believes they are somebody else.