Peter Pan syndrome

For other uses, see Peter Pan syndrome (disambiguation).
See also: Puer aeternus
Peter Pan syndrome
Illustration of Peter Pan playing the pipes, by F. D. Bedford from Peter and Wendy
Coined byDan Kiley

Peter Pan syndrome is a pop psychology term used to describe an adult who is socially immature. It refers to "never-growing" people who have reached an adult age, but cannot face their adult sensations and responsibilities. The term is a metaphor based on the concept of not growing up and being unable to leave childhood. People with Peter Pan Syndrome show behaviours associated with immaturity and a reluctance to be an adult. They have difficulties in social and professional relationships because of their irresponsible behaviours. While it has often only been associated with men in the past, it can affect any sex or gender.

The term has been used informally by both non-experts and some psychology professionals since the 1983 publication of The Peter Pan Syndrome: Men Who Have Never Grown Up, by Dr. Dan Kiley. Peter Pan Syndrome is not recognised by the World Health Organization and is not listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

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