Trisha Paytas’ Aquaman: The Psychology of Growing Up with a Unique Name

Celebrities’ Unique Baby Names: Pros and Cons, According to Psychologists

From Elon Musk’s sons X Æ A-12 and Techno Mechanicus to influencer Nara Smith’s children Rumble, Slim Easy, and Whimsy Lou, unconventional celebrity baby names often make headlines. Trisha Paytas recently joined the trend, naming her third son Aquaman Moses Paytas-Hacmon. But psychologists warn that quirky names might negatively impact a child’s future.

Trisha Paytas’ son Aquaman Moses Paytas-Hacmon. Studies suggest unusual names could affect life satisfaction.

How Names Shape Lives

Psychologists cite “nominative determinism”—the idea that people gravitate toward paths reflecting their names. Historically, surnames like Baker or Smith denoted professions, but modern studies suggest first names also influence careers. For example, a 2024 University of Utah study found individuals are likelier to work in fields starting with their name’s first letter (e.g., Dennis becoming a dentist). Similarly, people may reside in cities sharing their initials.

The Downsides of Unusual Names

While unique names can spark creativity, research highlights potential pitfalls. A 2006 University of Michigan study found individuals with disliked names often face lower self-esteem and life satisfaction. Siblings with uncommon names reported higher unhappiness levels, possibly due to social stigma or internalized insecurity.

Names also shape first impressions. A Syracuse University study revealed names like Susan or Thomas are perceived as warm and competent, while Alvin or Mercedes score lower. Additionally, a Beijing Institute of Psychology study linked unpopular names to higher crime rates, possibly due to societal bias. Dating apps also show rejection rates rise for those with unfashionable names, per a 2011 German study.

Nara Smith’s children: Unusual names may affect how others perceive them socially and professionally.

The Silver Lining: Creativity and Unique Careers

However, rare names aren’t all bad. Beijing researchers found they correlate with unconventional careers (e.g., filmmakers, judges). Nicholas Cage’s son Kal-El, for instance, might benefit from this trend. Arizona State University also noted CEOs with unique names often pursue distinctive business strategies.

Elon Musk’s son X Æ A-12: Unique names may foster creativity but pose social challenges.

Expert Advice

Psychologists advise balancing uniqueness with positivity. Professor David Zhu suggests parents validate a child’s individuality through nicknames or affirmations. “Help the child appreciate their uniqueness without feeling alienated,” he says.

Nicholas Cage’s son Kal-El: Rare names may inspire creative paths.

Conclusion

While quirky names can fuel creativity and unconventional success, they also risk social and psychological challenges. Parents must weigh originality against potential lifelong impacts—because a name is more than a label; it’s a first impression that lasts forever.