Why is it acceptable for a child to have an imaginary friend, but it is considered unhealthy for an adult to experience the same thing? Does society feel the need to snuff out mindful creativity and label it "unhealthy" once a child reaches a certain age?
by 
PrettyPirate
ANSWERS: 5
-
It's not about creativity it's about maturity IMHO. I could be wrong but I don't think kids who have real friends make up imaginary ones. By a certain age it's just expected that people will have replaced made-up friends with actual human relationships.
-
I think it's because imaginary friends are seen as a sign of immaturity, and almost as if you are trying to compensate for something not there I know as a child I had an imaginary friend, and it was a combination of over running creativity and immagination, but also because I spent long periods of time alone. When I started going to school properly, I met people and my imaginary friend was soon forgotten in favour of real people (which is rather sad). Presented with new ways to express myself in an imaginative and creative way and the increase of social interaction, I never did see Charlie the Giraffe again *sob*. I think many see adults with imaginary friends as people with very little social interaction, which can be an indication of mental issues and therefore considered unhealthy. I'm not saying it's the right way to think as a society, but it seems a common belief. Thank you for bringing up imaginary friends. It's been a long time since I thought of Charlie (who's here with me now) :D
-
I think we need to outgrow some behaviours just like sucking your thumb and throwing tantrums.
-
what do you mean it UNHEALTHY for my immaginary buddy to have a friend like me ?? I'm not THAT bad, how could I be unhealthy for anyone? especially my immaginary friend? I don't get it. Im Not Good for an Imaginary friend.. HU Just waite untill I tell them that !! then WE will see. (he he he !>)
-
I have always had an imaginary friend. I am a 32 year old professional and I have an imaginary friend, her name is Connie. She has been with me through some rough times, but sometimes she goes away and it just so happens, that she is usually gone when things are going well. I treat her like my conscience. I don't think it's a sign of immature behavior or mental weakness. Everybody deals with life in different ways, this is actually one of the healthiest ways I can think of, dont you think?
RELATED QUESTIONS
Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC