Reborn dolls may signal psychological distress, psychologists warn

Psychologists are warning about the potential for psychological distress linked to the growing popularity of hyper-realistic "reborn" baby dolls. These dolls, costing up to two thousand euros, are designed to closely resemble real infants. The reborn dolls, originating in the 1990s, are handmade with silicone, painted in detail, and are increasingly popular, especially among adults and teenagers. They are often purchased by collectors, grieving mothers, and the elderly, sometimes for therapeutic purposes. The dolls' lifelike appearance and the emotional attachment they can foster have prompted concerns from psychologists about their potential impact on mental health and emotional well-being.