Unlock Icon

Is Western culture stopping people from growing up?

www.economist.com

Date posted: May 11, 2025 at 10:48am

Kidults are all around you | Culture

Expanded Summary

The phenomenon of "kidults"—adults who embrace childlike interests and behaviors—has sparked a significant cultural conversation about the implications of a Western society that seemingly encourages extended adolescence. This article delves into the complexities of adulthood in modern times, exploring how societal expectations, economic factors, and shifting cultural norms influence individuals' transitions into mature roles. By examining the rise of kidults, the piece highlights the tensions between personal fulfillment and traditional markers of adulthood, raising questions about whether Western culture is inadvertently hindering growth or simply redefining what it means to be an adult.

What you’ll learn

Understand the term "kidult" and its implications in modern society.

Explore the cultural factors contributing to the trend of extended adolescence.

Discover the impact of economic conditions on adulthood perception in the West.

Why this matters

This exploration is crucial as it highlights the evolving landscape of adulthood and challenges traditional notions of maturity. Understanding the reasons behind the kidult phenomenon can help address societal pressures and expectations, ultimately fostering a healthier dialogue about personal growth and responsibility. As we navigate these cultural shifts, recognizing the nuances of adulthood becomes increasingly important for supporting individuals in their journey toward self-actualization.

About RemovePaywalls.com

RemovePaywalls.com is dedicated to providing users with access to quality content without the barriers of paywalls. By offering tools and resources to navigate subscription-based websites, we empower individuals to explore a wealth of information freely. Our mission is to enhance your online experience, ensuring that knowledge and insight are accessible to everyone.


Read other articles

Comedor: How Don't Feed the Birds kiosk killed off an award-winning restaurant
Trump Administration Lodges New Accusations Against Mahmoud Khalil - The New York Times
The Teen-Disengagement Crisis - The Atlantic
Scattered Pills Found Near Body of Gene Hackman's Wife as Inquiry Continues - The New York Times
Musk Inc is under serious threat
How Trump's '51st State' Canada Talk Came to Be Seen as Deadly Serious - The New York Times
How Hitler Dismantled a Democracy in 53 Days - The Atlantic
Carlisle-area refugees hurt by Trump's resettlement cuts