315. The psychology of trinket collecting

Why are we so obsessed with the tiny, adorable objects cluttering our desks, bags, and social media feeds? From plushies and vinyl figures to keychains and charms, trinket culture has exploded - but behind the cuteness lies something deeper. What do these seemingly insignificant objects reveal about us, our identities, and the times we’re living in? In today’s episode, we explore the psychology  of trinket culture: why we love collecting, how these objects shape our self-expression, and what they tell us about joy, nostalgia, and even economic anxiety in our twenties and beyond.

We explore:

• The digital rise of trinkets through TikTok, Pinterest, and aesthetic micro-trends
• How trinkets offer identity, status, and belonging
• The role of inner child healing and nostalgia
• Why scarcity, blind boxes, and “drops” feel so addictive
• Links between trinkets, impulse spending, and economic uncertainty
• Using trinkets to spark joy

Whether you’re a proud Labubu owner or just curious about why these tiny objects hold such big meaning, this episode is for you.

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The Psychology of your 20s is not a substitute for professional mental health help. If you are struggling, distressed or require personalised advice, please reach out to your doctor or a licensed psychologist.
 

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