There are laws regarding the employment of minors. However, our laws and protections don't take into account the pressures of fame and the temptation of the immense amounts of money that goes along with it.
And it is for this reason that I think that it would be a good idea for any employer to be required to pay for an independently employed legal advocate with a degree in child psychiatry as well as some law education, who would be chosen by the parent or legal guardian, to advocate for the rights of any child or teen employed in a substantial way in show business.
I thought of this as I was looking up the pop group known as the A Teens, and the boy band Dream Street. Most of the members of these bands did not have the kind of difficulties that Aaron Carter had, and The Beatles had an easier time dealing with their fame than Elvis did. Clearly being a member of a group that is going through it together helps.
Then how much more help would it be to have an actual trained expert working with your parents to advocate for your rights and mental health?
Indeed, the chance to hire just such an expert would be a great idea for adult celebrities in show business.
What if Brian Wilson had been able to hire a combination therapist and legal expert to advise him on how to handle fame in 1966?
A psychiatrist specifically trained in handling fame, with some legal experience?
We do such a bad job of taking care of our celebrities, adults included.
How much might someone like Amy Winehouse or Kurt Cobain have used someone like that?
Let alone children in showbiz.
Just an idea, but I think a very good one.
If you agree, pass it on!
God loves you!
Sincerely,
David S. Annderson