infantilism etymology

Etymology:

  • Infantile: from Latin "infans" (not speaking), meaning "childish" or "young"
  • -ism: suffix denoting a condition, state, or practice

Meaning:

Infantilism refers to the retention of childlike characteristics or behaviors in an adult. It can manifest in various ways, including physical, emotional, and intellectual immaturity.

Origin:

The term "infantilism" was first coined in the mid-19th century by German psychiatrist Wilhelm Griesinger. He used it to describe a condition in which adults exhibited physical and mental characteristics of children, such as small stature, high-pitched voices, and intellectual disability.

Usage:

Infantilism is often used in a negative sense to describe adults who fail to develop emotionally or intellectually. However, it can also be used in a more neutral or even positive sense to refer to certain aspects of adult behavior that are playful, carefree, or childlike.

Examples:

  • Physical infantilism: An adult with a small stature, delicate features, and underdeveloped body may be described as having physical infantilism.
  • Emotional infantilism: An adult who is highly dependent on others, has difficulty regulating their emotions, or engages in childish behaviors may be said to exhibit emotional infantilism.
  • Intellectual infantilism: An adult who has difficulty with abstract thinking, problem-solving, or learning new concepts may be described as having intellectual infantilism.

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