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When celebrities replace mentors: How American pop culture is shaping student identity worldwide

Celebrities and fandoms are increasingly shaping the values and identities of Gen Z and Gen Alpha, offering mentorship in areas like resilience, mental health, and philanthropy. These parasocial connections provide comfort and inspire action, from charity drives to climate activism. However, over-identification can lead to emotional burnout and toxic online interactions, highlighting the need for media literacy and balanced engagement.