Lifelike Dolls Divide Brazil: Are Fines the Answer?

Hyperrealistic Baby Dolls Spark Controversy in Brazil Brazil is currently facing an unusual social phenomenon: the increasing popularity of hyperrealistic baby dolls, known as 'reborn dolls'. These dolls are so lifelike that they are causing a stir, with videos showcasing emotional interactions going viral across social media. The lifelike nature of these dolls has led to some owners seeking medical attention for them, prompting a debate among Brazilian politicians. "Videos featuring emotional moments with these hyperrealistic, hand-crafted baby dolls have gone viral," explains ABC News Australia in a recent report. This has led to discussions in the Brazilian parliament about whether fines should be imposed on those seeking medical help for their dolls. One reborn doll artist, Alana Nascimento, noted that her biggest audience is children, but about 60% of her customers are adults. She stated, "There are adults who come in discreetly and buy. There are adults who have several of my dolls." The dolls serve various purposes, from grief therapy for those who have lost children to artistic expression and parenting practice. The price of these dolls ranges from approximately $200 to almost $3,000. The controversy highlights the blurring lines between reality and fantasy, and the emotional connections people form with inanimate objects.