Psychology says people who worship their idols in sports, politics, cinema or business aren't necessarily showing ordinary support when admiration becomes complete devotion. People can admire an athlete, politician, actor, filmmaker, creator or business leader without any problem. The concern begins when a public figure becomes central to a person's identity, emotions and daily decisions. Psychology uses the term Celebrity Worship Syndrome, or CWS, for extreme forms of attachment to celebrities. Research has connected high levels of celebrity worship with anxiety, lower self-esteem, cognitive rigidity and difficulties in social relationships. The behaviour can also involve parasocial relationships, projection and a search for personal meaning.
