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Why do name trends change?

29 replies

minihand · 10/11/2025 20:39

I know sometimes there’s an obvious reason like a book or film or celebrity inspiring a particular name but other times names just seem to come and go.

I was bored at work and idly looking back at name trends over the last thirty years and it reminded me of when every other little boy was called Jack. Hardly hear it now. Likewise Jessica and Chloe were really popular and Bethany.

I can’t think of any celebrities with those names although could be wrong. I’m just wondering what causes a sudden surge in popularity followed by a decline? It’s interesting anyway!

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StinkerTroll · 12/11/2025 18:04

I worked in schools and youth work when the Kylie's and Jason's should have come through, they never surfaced (unless it was too do with the geographical area I worked in)

LovelyUser · 12/11/2025 18:12

Are you a teacher, @StinkerTroll ?
I know some Britneys and Courtneys, and I think there might be a few Kylies.

Jason is a name that was aspirational then became mainstream then became a bit trashy. By the time Jason Donovan and Kylie Minogue were popular the name had a bad reputation.

StinkerTroll · 12/11/2025 18:49

LovelyUser · 12/11/2025 18:12

Are you a teacher, @StinkerTroll ?
I know some Britneys and Courtneys, and I think there might be a few Kylies.

Jason is a name that was aspirational then became mainstream then became a bit trashy. By the time Jason Donovan and Kylie Minogue were popular the name had a bad reputation.

I was and then became a youth worker in a different area

LovelyUser · 12/11/2025 18:53

You'll have come across a lot of children then, @StinkerTroll . It could be regional. I think the celebrity-inspired names might appeal to younger mothers and they might know a few Jasons already.

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