Quadrobics, a new viral youth trend in Russia, has sparked controversy and debate, with a Russian senator calling for a legal ban on the subculture. The trend involves teenagers roleplaying as animals by moving on all fours, imitating animal sounds and behavior, and wearing animal masks and costumes. The movement has gained momentum among Russian youth, drawing both support and criticism from public figures and the general public. Critics argue that quadrobics can have negative effects on mental health and have reported instances of quadrobers attacking passersby.
The debate surrounding quadrobics escalated when Russian pop singer Mia Boyka publicly criticized a teenage fan for being part of the movement during a concert. Boyka’s actions were met with backlash, with thousands of social media comments condemning her behavior. In response to the incident, Russian pop star Yegor Kreed released a TikTok video in support of the quadrober, stating that he is against publicly condemning people for their hobbies and choices. The incident also brought attention from Russia’s chief denunciator Yekaterina Mizulina, who criticized Boyka’s actions as a “pathetic attempt to assert oneself at the expense of a child.”
Critics of quadrobics argue that the subculture can have long-lasting negative effects on children’s mental health and have reported instances of quadrobers attacking passersby on city streets. The Safe Internet League has received letters from subscribers detailing instances of bullying and attacks by quadrobers. However, some psychiatrists offer a different perspective, viewing quadrobics as a normal children’s game that is part of teenagers’ search for identity and socialization. Psychotherapist Vera Sukhikh describes quadrobics as an advanced imaginative game that can serve as a way to have fun and emotionally unload. Child psychologist Alexandra Ermilova also sees quadrobics as a normal part of childhood play.
Despite the differing opinions on quadrobics, the debate over whether to ban the subculture continues to divide public opinion in Russia. While some argue that quadrobics promotes creativity and socialization among teenagers, others fear its potential negative impact on mental health and interactions with the general public. As the trend gains momentum and further attention, it remains to be seen how lawmakers and society will respond to the growing popularity of quadrobics among Russian youth.
