“It is treating them as a child, a victim, and so forth.”
If someone is infantilized, it can be harmful to their self-image and confidence.
What Is Infantilizing Behavior?
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First, it’s important to reiterate that this doesn’t happen only in parent-child relationships.
“This can happen in any relationship,” says Benton.
“Excessive neediness can be a sign.
Additionally, one person in the relationship can gaslight and leave the other feeling inadequate and incompetent.”
It’s also important to understand why this might be happening.
Why Do People Infantilize?
People can infantilize others for lots of reasons.
In parent-child situations, it unfortunately often starts early.
“This is something that can start in childhood and last through adulthood,” says Benton.
Impact of Infantilization
The effects of infantilization can often be seen years after thedysfunctional relationshiphas ended.
Reasons for Infantilization
The simple answer is to gain control.
For parents, they may have good intentions in that they want the best for their child.
This can be damaging when it gets to the point of not allowing children to make their own decisions.
“Often, it has been going on long enough to feel normal,” says Benton.
Benton suggests seeking out a therapist or counselor to talk to about the things that are concerning.
If it’s coming from a parent, she also recommendsfamily therapy.
Many therapists work with their patients to recognize statements or actions that are infantilizing.
Once people recognize them, it’s much easier to call them out and address them.
Therapists can also work with you on effective responses and reactions.
A Word From Verywell
If you are dealing with being infantilized, it can be understandably frustrating.
Know that this is is a line of thinking that you might work through in therapy.
Find a therapist who can work with you to recognize these actions.
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