FESTIVE FAIL
Billie Faiers sparks backlash with ‘Grinch trick’ on her kids, as psychologists warn it can cause ‘significant distress’
It can also lead to an "erosion of trust" between kids and their parents
BILLIE Faiers has sparked controversy by playing the "Grinch trick" on her and sister Sam's kids.
The reality star's husband Greg Shepherd dressed up as the Christmas character, and his antics were recorded for a video on Billie's Instagram page.
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In the clip, the 'Grinch' was seen racing around the family home, knocking things over and causing havoc as he went.
Billie's sister Sam was seen clutching her youngest, baby Edward, who looked very confused about what was going on.
At one point, the Grinch swept a load of things off the top of the kitchen counter - leaving Calpol, nappies and a thermometer on the floor.
He then went into the front room, where Sam's eldest Paul and Billie's son Arthur started to try and fight him with pillows, as well as tickling him.
He responded by tickling them back.
"When The Grinch breaks in," Billie wrote alongside the Instagram video.
Sam was among the first to comment on the post, writing: "Hilarious!
"Poor Margot and Edward, they were so confused!"
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While Sam and Billie's mum Suzie Wells added: "This was so funny, they loved it!"
"This was so funny, Greg you mean one," a third commented.
"Hilarious, I can't stop watching it," someone else wrote.
"Made me smile," another added.
"Of course Greg would do this!!!"
Others were more concerned about the mess Greg Grinch had left behind.
"Omg the mess," one wrote.
"Hope you made him clear up the mess he made," another added.
As a third said: "I'd wait for him to come back as daddy and be like right mate clean this mess up!!"
But the comments section was also filled with remarks from people who thoroughly disapproved of the prank.
"Awh the kids r well scared," one wrote.
"What is it with this theme this year- don’t like it one bit," another said.
"Poor bairns man ,the two babies were like what the hell is going on!" a third said.
"Omg my anxiety would be through the roof lol," someone else wrote.
"Am I the only one that finds the Grinch scary?" another questioned.
As someone else said: "I think my girls would’ve been terrified."
And in fact, while Billie certainly isn't the only mum to have staged such a prank at Christmas, psychologists have warned that this particular trick can end up causing "significant distress".
psychologist Mark Rabvir to look at the deeper impacts such actions could have on children.
"Children, especially those under the age of 10, are in a crucial stage of development, psychologist Mark Rabvir said.
"Their understanding of the world, the formation of trust, and the development of coping mechanisms are all evolving rapidly.
"The concept of 'safe spaces' is paramount; children typically view their homes as their primary safe environment.
"The sudden introduction of a frightening figure, particularly one linked to a cultural symbol of joy and festivity like Christmas, can cause significant distress."
In addition, in some cases it can cause erosion of trust between a child and their parent, as well as leading to long-term anxiety.
"Experiences that induce fear can have lasting impacts," Mark added.
"Some children may develop a heightened sense of anxiety, especially around the holidays or in situations that remind them of the incident."
And it also may lead to distorted perceptions of festivity.
"The Grinch, as a character, represents a complex narrative around Christmas," Mark continued.
"Introducing this character in a negative light might not only scare children but also distort their understanding and enjoyment of the holiday season.
"While creativity in parenting is essential, it's crucial to differentiate between what is playful and what could be psychologically harmful.
"The line between a harmless prank and an act that instills fear can be very thin.
"Parents should aim to create an atmosphere of joy, safety, and security, especially during a time of year that is culturally associated with happiness and family."
"While the 'Grinch Trick' might seem like a playful jest, it is important to consider its potential psychological impacts on children," Tom Riley, from Kids Cars added.
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"The role of parents and guardians is not just to entertain but to nurture and provide a safe, secure environment.
"This holiday season, let's focus on building positive, joyful experiences that children will cherish for a lifetime."
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