Peer Reviewed
Innocence revisited
When innocence is lost...we react in differing ways
Abstract
For some people loss of innocence can lead to cynicism, and even emotional or behavioural crippling, as this author explains.
Key Points
Loss of ‘innocence’ is a normal feature of the progression from childhood through adolescence to adulthood. In the ideal circumstances of a caring family, the change is handled thoughtfully, without any damage being sustained. Humour, friendly leg pulling and many subtle educative processes may contribute.
Some young folk are not so lucky. The outcome may be the sudden or gradual development of cynicism and a dangerous form of scepticism. Loss of innocence may thus result in emotional and/or behavioural crippling.
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