Infantilism in Adults: The Phenomenon of the 'Eternal Child' in Psychology and Society Infantilism in adulthood is not just a trivial term for describing a carefree person, but a complex psychological and socio-adaptive phenomenon. It is characterized by the retention of traits, behavioral patterns, and ways of thinking typical of earlier age periods in an adult. In the scientific discourse, this phenomenon is often referred to as psychosocial immaturity or personal immaturity, indicating its comprehensive nature, affecting the emotional, volitional, and social spheres. Key Characteristics: Beyond Whimpering Infantilism manifests not in individual actions, but in systemic personality characteristics: Emotional regulation (affective immaturity): Infantries have emotional lability, characterized by rapid, intense, often inappropriate emotional reactions (tantrums, grievances, elations). The external locus of control prevails: they attribute failures to external circumstances ("the boss is nitpicking", "others are just lucky"), while attributing successes to themselves. The ability for deferred gratification and patience is minimal. An interesting fact: neurobiological studies suggest a possible link between such traits and less active prefrontal cortex, responsible for impulse control and long-term planning. Cognitive style: Thinking is characterized by egocentrism — difficulty in taking the perspective of another person. The world is perceived through the prism of one's own desires and needs. Magical thinking is present — belief in the spontaneous realization of desired things without effort or due to external forces ("it will all work out", "they will save me"). Social and volitional sphere: There is no clear personal self-determination, life goals are blurred or borrowed. There is a hyper-reliance on the social environment (parents, partner, friends) in solving daily, financial, and emotional tasks. Responsibility for one's life, health, and well-being is del ... Read more