The quality of being immature, silly, or acting in a way considered unsuitable for an adult, often foolish or lacking seriousness.
From 'childish' (Old English 'cildlic') plus the suffix '-ness,' which creates abstract nouns meaning a state or condition. The concept of childishness assumes adulthood as the norm.
Childishness gets a bad rap, but it's what gives us play, creativity, and wonder—the irony is that scientists and artists often need more childishness, not less, to make breakthroughs, which is why many geniuses seem to retain a 'silly' streak.
Culturally feminized trait; dismissive language ('childish,' 'hysterical,' 'emotional') has been weaponized to devalue women's voices and concerns, especially in professional/political contexts. Used as a gendered insult more often against women.
Use behaviorally: 'immature response' or 'emotionally reactive.' Avoid 'childish' or 'childlike' as gendered insults. If describing actual children's development, use precisely: 'age-appropriate,' 'developmentally expected.'
["immaturity","emotional reactivity","lack of emotional regulation","age-appropriate behavior (when literal)"]
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