Adult pacifiers sweep China: A new trend or a return to childhood
It may be common to see a baby using a pacifier to soothe and calm their crying, as this has been the primary purpose for which they were created since their inception.
But what's strange this time is that pacifiers have become popular among adults—especially men—in China. What's the reason? Is it related to medical or psychological reasons, or is it simply an unexpected return to childhood?
The Phenomenon's Spread in China
In recent months, "adult pacifiers" have flooded Chinese markets, promoted as a means of relieving anxiety, improving sleep quality, and even helping smokers quit. Some online stores have reported sales exceeding 2,000 units per month, reflecting the rapid spread of this strange trend.
Adult Pacifier Specifications:
- Larger than traditional pacifiers for babies.
- Prices range from 10 to 500 Chinese yuan ($1.4-$70).
- Marketed as a tool to reduce stress and improve breathing.
- Some claim they help smokers quit.
User Opinions and Experiences: A number of Chinese people who have tried these pacifiers confirmed that they provide them with a sense of comfort and security, especially during times of stress or during smoking cessation.
One described them as "soft, high-quality, and non-obstructive," while another said they helped him regain the sense of security he felt as a child.
The Psychological Explanation of the Phenomenon
According to Dr. Walid Hindi, a mental health consultant, some people who resort to using pacifiers as adults may not have received sufficient emotional fulfillment during early childhood.
This lack may unconsciously drive them to engage in behaviors similar to those that soothed them as children, such as thumb sucking or pacifier use.
He explained that it may also be a way to attract attention or stand out from others, especially for those seeking to be different in any way.
Potential Health Risks
According to Dr. Ahmed Gamal, a dental specialist, the use of pacifiers by adults may cause:
- Dry mouth due to keeping it open for long periods.
- Affecting the alignment of teeth and increasing the likelihood of cavities.
- Gum problems and oral bacteria growth.
While some consider it a stress-reliever tool, others view it as a mere fad, the "adult pacifier" in China remains a controversial phenomenon, combining medical curiosity and psychoanalysis with health risks and rapid spread.
