Page 65 - Inner.cdr

prospects (Dickson et al). reducing dependence on instant fame through
entertainment avenues which seem to be the way
In addition, the emphasis on superficiality in now.
celebrity culture can erode young people's values
and sense of purpose (Twenge 95). The focus on II. Strengthen Mental Health Support: The
physical appearance, material possessions, and Government and other health related officials
fleeting fame can overshadow intrinsic qualities should provide accessible mental health resources
and values like intelligence, compassion, humility, and counselling to address anxieties and pressures
respect and civic responsibility. This can lead to a associated with aspiration towards unrealistic
generation obsessed with self-image, social media lifestyles. And encourage youths to build self-worth
validation and the accumulation of "likes" rather b a s e d o n p e r s o n a l va l u e s , t a l e n t s a n d
than contributing positively to society (Twenge accomplishments, rather than comparing
102). themselves to curated online figures.
NECESSARY SOLUTIONS TO THE PROBLEM OF 3. SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS
CELEBRITY LIFESTYLE SYNDROME.
Implementing Stricter Regulations: The social
Addressing the "Celebrity-Lifestyle Syndrome" media officials should address cyber bullying and
among Nigerian youths requires a multifaceted misinformation by holding platforms accountable
approach targeting both the media and youth for harmful content and promoting fact-checking
perception. Here are some potential solutions: mechanisms.
1. MEDIA LITERACY: 4. COMMUNITY AND FAMILY APPROACH:
I. Promote Media Literacy Programme s: Media I. The Family is the First and Immediate School of
experts and scholars need to educate youths of a Child; the family should not fail in the education
Nigeria on critically analysing media content, of these future youths about the value of hard work
recognizing bias and manipulationas well as and moral success.
differentiating reality from curated online
personalities. II. Engage Community Leaders and Influencers:
They should utilise their reach and credibility to
promote positive messaging and counter harmful
narratives surrounding celebrity culture.

III. Promote Financial Literacy: Educate youths on
responsible financial management and highlight
the long-term consequences of unsustainable
spending habits often associated with celebrity
lifestyles.
CONCLUSION
Tackling this issue requires a long-term,
collaborative effort. By actively promoting media
literacy, youth development, responsible media
practices and positive social messaging, we can
empower Nigerian youths to make informed
choices and embrace healthy aspirations beyond
the allure of the "Celebrity-Lifestyle Syndrome".
Dear Nigerian youths, arise! Make the best of your
life and beware of being mislead by inauthentic and
extravagant lifestyles.
II. Encourage Diverse Media Representation:
Media promoters and reality shows should
showcase successful role models in various fields,
not just celebrities, in order to broaden the
aspirations of Nigerian youths and highlight
alternative paths to achievement.
III. Transparency of Media Outlets: There should WORKS CITED
be a Push for responsible journalism that exposes Branon Dave. Our Daily Bread. Donnelly printing solutions company ltd, 2022.
the pitfalls and complexities of celebrity life, Brown, J. The Role of Media Literacy in Reducing the Negative Effects of Celebrity
Culture on Young People. Journal of Media Literacy Education, vol. 9, no. 1, 2017
emphasising real-world struggles and sacrifices Cash,T. F., and Thompson, L. K. Body Image and Eating Disorders in Athletes.
behind the glamour. Sports Medicine, 2007.
Dickson, N Ferguson, E. and Fitzsimmons, A.The Influence of Celebrity
2. YOUTH DEVELOPMENT: Endorsement on Young Consumers' Brand Attitudes.Journal of Business Research,
2014.
I. Investment in skill development programs: The Twenge, J. M. Generation Me: Why Today's Young Americans Are Narcissists,
Government should equip youths with marketable E n t i t l e d , a n d U n f u l fi l l e d . F r e e P r e s s , 2 0 0 7 .
https://www.legit.ng/entertainment/celebrities/1453466-cancel-culture-5-
skills and career options, fostering self-reliance and celebrities-who-have-faced-wrath-nigerians-social-media/