Why do we fall in love with idols: a qualitative study on motivational changes in the process of idol worship among Chinese adolescents and young adults

BACKGROUND: This study focuses on the motivational structure of adolescent idol worship phenomenon in China and its influence on behavioral characteristics. This study employed qualitative research methods through semi-structured interviews to collect data. METHODS: Using purposive sampling, we recruited 26 female participants into two groups (6 adults, 20 adolescents and young adults), aged 13–29, with fandom durations 1–16 years, and diverse educational/occupational backgrounds to ensure information diversity and representativeness. RESULTS: Through interviews with fans on the process of idol worship, this study identified four stages of fan identity formation (attraction, like, loyalty, and fanaticism) and corresponding behavioral patterns. Behavioral changes are not only shown in these four stages, but also in the calm, unfandom and integration stages, none of which have new motivations. The initial attraction stage is primarily driven by external factors such as leisure activities and social integration, while the loyalty stage shifts toward interpersonal needs and self-motivation. Adolescent idol worship manifests in two forms: rational and irrational. Most teenagers can rationally balance their admiration for idols with daily life, though a small number of extreme irrational behaviors may negatively impact individuals and society. CONCLUSION: The study offers recommendations for educators: advocate reasonable guidance to help adolescents and young adults pursue idol worship rationally, avoiding irrational indulgence; cultivate critical thinking skills to enable teenagers to properly absorb positive qualities from their idols and promote personal development.