The Resurgence of Demi Lovato

You can touch me with slow hands
Speed it up, baby, make me sweat
Dreamland, take me there cause I want your sex
If my body had a say, I wouldn’t turn away
Touch, make love, taste you
If my body told the truth, baby I would do
Just what I want toIf I had it my way, I would take the lead
And if I had it my way, I would take you deep
If my body had a say, I’d get it off my chest
Show you all the red lace underneath this dress
You can easily see why TIME Magazine calls Body Say an “ode to the bedroom.” And if the promotional artwork for the song’s forthcoming music video is any indication, we’re in for a racy one.

So, the question for youth workers and parents who are helping teenagers navigate today’s culture is, “In a world that constantly shifts its image, how do we help them choose their entertainment influencers?”

Deciding on Demi (And Others)
In no way am I picking on Demi Lovato. As he grew up, our young son loved watching her perform on Disney’s television shows and movies. She was the quintessential “good guy” in every setting. I grieve for her – and the millions of other girls – who are told their self-worth hinges on their outward appearance. That vicious lie negatively affects young ladies on both ends of the spectrum. Girls who lack the physical image of magazine covers (that are usually retouched and unrealistic) don’t feel as though they measure up, and girls who do possess tremendous beauty are told they must flaunt it to be significant.

Sadly, Demi has felt the sting on both ends.

Here are a couple of ideas to help the teens in your life who may be questioning the changes taking place in Demi’s life – or the lives of other beloved celebrities.

 

1. Help your teens realize that all Disney stars eventually get older. (Notice I didn’t say that all Disney stars “grow up.”) As they get older, with more money and less accountability, some begin to try to carve an identity that’s anything but kid-friendly. They tend to shed the Mickey Mouse ears for something less wholesome. Everyone knows the very public and painful path that Miley, Britney, and Lindsay have taken since leaving Disney in the dust – but they weren’t the only ones who’ve had their troubles. No, you don’t have to be the prophet wildly trying to predict the next downfall of a young celebrity, but don’t let your teenagers be taken by surprise, either.
2. Engage your teenagers in conversations about their entertainment choices. Do you know who their favorite musical artist is? Do you know who their celeb crush is? Do you know where their favorite celebrities land on values such as abortion, marriage equality, and more? You won’t if you don’t engage your kids in conversations. The best way to start – and sustain – a conversation is by asking questions. If you notice your kids talking about the song, or if they hear the song on the radio (because honestly- it’s not doing well on the charts at the moment, so they might have not even heard of it yet), here are a few Q’s you could use if Demi comes up:

                In what ways has Demi changed since her days on Disney Channel?

Why do you think she has shifted her image and music so greatly?

How will the message of Body Say impact the hearts of your generation? 

Do you think Demi is happier now? How can you tell? 

If you could speak with Demi, what would you say to her or ask her?

I don’t know where Demi’s future will take her. But her public soul-searching doesn’t have to negatively impact the teenagers in your life. Demi is not the first celebrity to struggle as she finds her way out of adolescence and into adulthood in front of millions of fans…and haters. Neither will she be the last. In no way is this a call to condemn Demi. Instead, use your voice to pray for her.