Who is Huggy Wuggy and why children love the toothy monster: psychologists explain the phenomenon

The hero of the popular horror game about a toy killer named Huggy Wuggy, surprisingly, found a response not only among those who like to tickle their nerves at the computer but also among preschoolers. Children are happy to play with the blue monster with three rows of sharp teeth and a triangular head, while parents wonder how safe such characters are for the kids' psyche.

Psychologist Olena Naumenko advises not to rush to conclusions but to understand what exactly Huggy Wuggy is for children in more detail. She shared her thoughts with Liga Life journalists (scroll to the bottom of the page to see the photo).

According to the expert, the toy seems dangerous, in particular, because of the three rows of sharp teeth that are associated with aggression.

"Most parents have read about the game on the Internet, where Huggy Wuggy himself is from, so they have an opinion about what a scary monster he is. Children perceive it differently. He is bright and in colors that do not "cause" danger. And the teeth are a smile. For them, Huggy Wuggy is something soft and fluffy that they can hug," the psychologist explained.

It is worth adding that the computer game's plot involves the protagonist going to an abandoned factory where, as a result of an accident, the good hero Huggy Wuggy has turned into a deadly character. He stalks his victim and tries to "hug her to death". These words are heard in the song that accompanies the monster on the screen.

However, the furry horror character has gained popularity among children aged 3 to 7. Olena Naumenko suggested that kids see him as just a bright and soft toy, and Ukrainian preschoolers may even consider it a defender in the context of a full-scale war.

"He has a lot of teeth, so attentive adults can play up the fears of children who are afraid to go into the shelter or are scared of air raid alarm. Look, you have a Huggy Wuggy, look at his teeth. He will definitely be able to protect you," the psychologist said.

However, not all opinions about the triangular-headed monster are so positive. For example, educator Olena Protasova recommends that parents protect preschoolers from Huggy Wuggy so that they do not accidentally stumble upon 16+ content.

A similar opinion was expressed by the host of the YouTube channel NEBO ON. According to her, the toy monster can cause associations with another horror character, the triangular-headed executioner.

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