Male idols of today's teens

You know, those people we looked up to when we were younger, whom we aspired to be like, and possibly now, whom we want our children to emulate? 

As young children, our first role models are usually our parents, and it takes years for us to see them as people with frailties, despite their impressive qualities. 

Children and adolescents are also drawn to other kinds of role heroes or idols: They might revere athletes in professional sports, or religiously pursue the lives of movie stars, action figures, television or pop music personalities on social media.

Extreme fandom can inspire them to post pictures on websites or paste posters on their bedroom walls or school lockers. Sometimes the adulation borders on intense worship or even fantasied romantic love.

Thus, the choice of a role model is entirely 'in the eye of the beholder,' and highly personal: Yours chosen idol might be someone I dislike, and my role model might be your scoundrel.

Whether our role models are creative people who contribute to human progress and quality of life, or others who provide us with entertainment and stimulation, to put any outstanding individuals on pedestals of perfection is fraught with the specter of disillusionment.