Overview

Infantilism — often referred to in popular culture as "adult baby" behavior or, in clinical literature, paraphilic infantilism — describes a range of adult behaviors and interests involving regression to an infantile or toddler role. For some people this regression is primarily erotic; for others it is non‑sexual and practiced as stress relief, comfort, or roleplay. The term covers a spectrum from private fantasies to organized social activity. Scholarly sources vary in terminology, and the condition is not a single, universally defined diagnosis in major diagnostic manuals.

Common characteristics and practices

People who identify with infantilism may adopt babyish clothing, use bottles or pacifiers, speak or be addressed in simplified language, and sometimes wear diapers. The following list summarizes common features seen across the community and clinical descriptions:

  • Role adoption: intentionally playing the role of an infant or toddler for a period of time.
  • Use of infantile objects: diapers, pacifiers, baby clothing, bottles, and soft toys.
  • Caregiver dynamics: another adult may take a "caregiver" or "parent" role, which can be non‑sexual or part of a sexual relationship.
  • Emotional regulation: many report using regression to reduce anxiety or as a coping mechanism.
  • Sexual arousal: for some, involvement is linked to sexual arousal (paraphilic infantilism); for others it is not.

History and social context

Descriptions of adult roleplay resembling infantilism are scattered through psychological and cultural records, but the modern visibility of the practice grew with the internet and online communities in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Online forums, social groups, and conventions allow consenting adults to share experiences, form social bonds, and exchange practical information about safety and consent. Community labels such as "AB/DL" (Adult Baby/Diaper Lover) emerged to distinguish between a focus on regression versus a focus on the diaper as a fetish. For an introductory overview see further reading.

Clinicians distinguish between atypical but consensual adult behavior and clinically significant paraphilias. Diagnostic systems emphasize distress, impairment, or harm to others as criteria for labeling a sexual interest a disorder. Infantilism per se is not automatically pathological; treatment is typically sought when the behavior causes the person distress, interferes with functioning, or involves non‑consensual acts. It is essential to stress that any involvement of minors is illegal and harmful. Infantilism as an adult practice should be distinguished from pedophilia — the sexual attraction to prepubescent children — and conflating the two can be misleading; see resources on protective law and child welfare at relevant guidance.

Uses, motivations, and community life

Motivations for engaging in infantilism vary. Some adults report comfort, a desire to escape adult responsibilities temporarily, or stress relief. Others experience sexual arousal associated with regression or specific objects such as diapers; discussion of such fetishes is often found alongside practical buying guides and community etiquette advice at community resources. Groups typically emphasize consent, confidentiality, and the importance of separating adult roleplay from any interaction with children or public indecency.

Distinctions and notable facts

Important distinctions in discussion of infantilism include: separating consensual adult roleplay from criminal behavior; differentiating regression‑focused identities (often called "adult babies") from object‑focused diaper fetishism; and recognizing that many practitioners lead functional lives outside these role scenes. Academic and therapy approaches aim to reduce stigma while addressing risk and harm. For basic clarification on related developmental references see background material.

Because research is limited and community practices are diverse, reliable information relies on careful, respectful inquiry and on resources that emphasize consent, safety, and legal boundaries.