This is our fourth feature on Real Doll subculture, or what we've deemed "fake intimacy." The latest term to refer to someone in a romantic relationships with a love doll is an "iDollator."
We may have featured the first story a few months ago, but the trend is picking up momentum in traditional media, with new articles being published each week to detail these controversial intimacies.
Here are a few other features that have received media attention:
On MTV Cribs, Vince Neil (Motley Crue) showed off his Real Doll.
Real Dolls were featured repeatedly on Boston Legal.
On Tip/Tick, a Real Doll was created to look like Kelly Carlson.
Howard Stern revealed details on his own encounters with a Real Doll.
A UK documentary called Guys and Dolls followed four men with Love Dolls, detailing their individual reasons for having them.
"Mike, a Texan, risks a real-life relationship for his eight dolls. Another owner, Davecat, explains he prefers the security of his inanimate girlfriend over unpredictable, potentially cruel treatment he could be subject to from a real woman," Canoe explained.
"The documentary also takes a fascinating look inside the San Diego factory where the dolls are made. There, Abyss Creations has been manufacturing Real Dolls at a rate of six to eight each week for more than a decade. What Abyss makes are high-tech versions of 'love dolls' dating back to Second World War, where they were introduced by the Japanese and Germans to help their soldiers cope in an all-male environment."
We're not talking about cheap blow-up dolls here; these are very life-like and beautiful, some selling for over $6,000.
Check out our past features:
Fake Intimacy (Part IV)
iDollators
Trend Themes
1. Increasing Adoption of Real Doll Subculture - Opportunity for manufacturing companies to develop advanced and high-tech love dolls to meet the growing demand.
2. Media Attention on Idollators - Potential for media outlets to explore this controversial subculture and create content that provides insights and perspectives on the phenomenon.
3. Concerns Over Relationships with Artificial Companions - Opportunity for psychologists and therapists to study and provide guidance to individuals engaging in relationships with love dolls to better understand the impact on emotional well-being.
Industry Implications
1. Manufacturing - Manufacturers can capitalize on the increasing demand for high-quality and realistic love dolls by developing innovative and technologically advanced products.
2. Media and Entertainment - Media companies can explore the Real Doll subculture and create engaging content that sheds light on the experiences, motivations, and challenges faced by individuals engaging in relationships with love dolls.
3. Psychology and Therapy - Psychologists and therapists can provide support and guidance to individuals involved in relationships with love dolls, helping them navigate the emotional and psychological aspects of these unconventional relationships.