Kidult

A kidult is an adult whose interests or media consumption is traditionally seen as more suitable for children or adolescents. It can also mean a parent who acts childishly with their children and does not take on their duties as a disciplinarian. Most kidults tend to use their interests as a form of escapism, or as a break from their stressful adult lifestyle. There has been a significant increase in this due to the high pressure found in modern living and conditions. While the term is often used in a derogatory manner, the figure of the kidult challenges both hierarchies between children and adults and heteronormative family structures. Similar portmanteau terms for such people are rejuvenile and adultescent. A related concept is that of Peter Pan syndrome, where a person is reluctant to grow emotionally after childhood.