Peter Pan syndrome

Peter Pan syndrome is a pop psychology term for an adult who is socially immature, a never-growing person who has reached adult age but cannot face adult sensations and responsibilities. The name is a metaphor drawn from the idea of not growing up and being unable to leave childhood. People described this way show behaviours linked with immaturity and reluctance to be an adult, and they have difficulties in social and professional relationships because of irresponsible conduct. It was long tied to men but is said to affect adults of any sex or gender. Non-experts and some psychology professionals have used the term informally since the 1983 book The Peter Pan Syndrome: Men Who Have Never Grown Up by Dan Kiley. It is not recognised by the World Health Organization and is not listed in the DSM-5. This record is a reference summary of a popular concept, not medical advice.