Justin Bieber's public perception varies greatly among different groups of people, largely due to the changes in his career and personal life over time.Initially known as a teenage heartthrob, Bieber was favored for his pure pop sound, good looks and dancing skills, with a fan base predominantly comprised of young girls. His early songs were upbeat, catchy and largely about young love which appealed to this demographic. He was generally perceived as a talented, young pop music sensation.However, as Bieber grew older, his public image began to suffer as a result of several controversial incidents including reckless driving, substance abuse and not-so-amicable interactions with the media. This adversely affected the way a portion of the public perceived him, with some people viewing him as a symbol of wasted potential.However, over time, he attempted to make a comeback, acknowledging his past mistakes and expressing a desire to change. His recent albums demonstrate a shift towards more mature themes and a willingness to open up about his struggles, like mental health issues. His marriage to Hailey Baldwin also signaled moving towards stability. As of now, perceptions towards Bieber have significantly improved, but some skepticism still remains.In terms of his real-life persona, there seems to be a certain complexity. Interviews and documentaries indicate that Bieber, much like anyone else, has faced difficulty in handling fame, especially from a young age. He's described as goofy, kind-hearted, and genuine by those close to him. However, all these perceptions can differ based on individual opinions and experiences, as people's views are often influenced by their personal beliefs, values, impressions of his music, interaction, media narratives, etc.