A new trend ( adult pacifier) of adults using baby pacifiers (dummies) to relieve stress and anxiety has taken Chinese social media by storm, sparking both popularity and controversy. Many young adults claim the pacifiers help them sleep better, quit smoking, and cope with work pressure, but doctors warn of serious health risks.
On Chinese e-commerce platforms, buyers praise the product, with one saying, “It gives me childhood comfort during stressful times,” while another claims it helps with smoking cessation. However, dental expert Dr. Tang Kaomin from Chengdu warns that prolonged use can misalign teeth, cause jaw pain, and even lead to choking hazards if parts are inhaled during sleep.
Psychologist Dr. Zhang Mu criticizes the trend, stating, “Running to pacifiers instead of solving problems won’t fulfill emotional needs.” The debate has gone viral, with over 60 million views on one platform alone. While some mock the trend—“Is this a stupid tax?”—others defend it as a coping mechanism.
