If this manga ever gets an anime, I bet they'll have to use a helpline warning before every episode. Also, a hot woman staring at "me" and saying "small.... but still cute" gives me some strange associations.
2. It's actually better for your image if you don't care about being seen hugging a plushie. Caring about being perceived as more adult by not doing things that make you look childish, actually makes you more childish.