

TikTok Trends with Psychologist Robyn Koslowitz: Labubus, Cold Play Jumbotron, Post Traumatic Parenting
Jul 24, 2025
Dr. Robyn Koslowitz, a licensed psychologist and expert in behavior, dives into the emotional power of trending obsessions like Labubu dolls and the psychology behind blind box unboxing. She breaks down the allure of the Coldplay jumbotron and discusses why she keeps her kids off social media. The conversation touches on ‘ParentTok’ and its double-edged sword, while exploring concepts like time confetti and their impact on mental health. With insights from her book, she addresses pandemic burnout and the journey of healing the inner child.
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Trends Fulfill Belonging Needs
- Trends like Labubu dolls and Stanley cups satisfy belonging and fitting-in drives, not societal collapse.
- Dr. Robyn Koslowitz says kids follow trends to feel part of the group and that’s normal behavior.
Anticipation Fuels Viral Unboxing
- Blind boxes and unboxing videos trigger anticipation-driven dopamine loops for viewers and participants.
- Robyn explains that the suspense before opening gives the same thrill as a roller coaster climb.
Child Hugged Blind Box Before Unboxing
- Robyn recounts giving her eight-year-old a Littlest Pet Shop blind box she hugged before opening.
- The child said the pre-opening anticipation was the best part because she didn’t want it to end.