The “Kidulting” Phenomenon: Unlocking Gen Z’s Coping Mechanisms Through Childhood

Visual image of “kidulting” showing an adult male playing with Legos.

Picture this: after a whole day full of classes, group projects, looming deadlines, and even for some endless hours of meetings. For those who are doing an internship or actively working, a 9-to-9 job grind, with hollow eyes that are just begging for sleep, but the notifications just keep on ringing. Trying to unwind on a weekend by simply having a quiet, peaceful morning or hanging out with friends feels just as unenjoyable due to all of the stress and pressure of adulthood. 

But what if there’s a way to give our brains a break and go back to the times when all we would worry about is our toys breaking? Well, that’s exactly what Gen Z is currently doing, falling back on what they know has made them happy. It varies from something as simple as rewatching their favorite series or movie they grew up with, with some even going as far as buying character merchandise and making it their whole personality. For others, going to recreation places such as Kidzania, the infamous play-pretend place that used to be for kids, is now more occupied by adults. 

On the surface, it might seem counterintuitive. Gen Z, as the most digitally native generation, seemingly fast-paced and always looking forward to the future, ironically finds solace in the reminiscence of their childhood. The answer lies beyond the surface-level essence of “playing”; rather, it’s a profound coping mechanism in response to the relentless exposure to other people’s lives and the overwhelming pressure from education, career, relationships, and more. It feels like we’re always bracing ourselves for the next big thing. 

This explains the lure of “kidulting” and why it’s so appealing. Just thinking about having no daunting ladders to climb, feeling free to color outside the lines. It’s not just about reminiscing about the old times but reliving them—even if it’s just a temporary escape. Engaging in activities such as building Legos offers a clear objective, with instructions carefully crafted step by step, and a satisfying end product. Unlike adulthood and growing up, no matter how meticulously we plan what our lives should look like, it’s still uncertain. 

As some might say, “kidulting” is about allowing our inner child to be healed and embraced. It’s not about trapping ourselves in a superficial world but finding that comfort and uninhibited happiness in a world that keeps on demanding more. Sometimes, what we truly need to thrive in adulthood is just a little bit of fun by doing what we know best: play.

So if you’re feeling like you’ve reached peak adulthood with its burdening stress and overwhelming thoughts, reach for that one beloved plushie you can’t seem to live without, the one with the threads unraveling and stuffing exposed, and whisper your secrets, fears, and excitements as you stray far into dreamland. 

“Being childlike is not childish.”