Do People Think Differently of You If You're an Adult and You Still Use a Pacifier?

Yes, they certainly do think of you differently. In our society, the perception of using a pacifier as an adult is often viewed quite differently than as a child. Here’s an exploration of how pacifier use can impact public perception and what it might say about an adult's behavior.

The Initial Perception: Stupidity

When an adult is seen using a pacifier, it’s natural for the first thought to be that the individual is somehow stupid. This immediate reaction is commonly observed, and it’s a reflection of our cultural norms surrounding adult behavior and maturity. While it’s a jumping off point, it’s also worth questioning and considering where these perceptions come from.

Observational Evidence: Unusual Behavior

There are instances where adults are seen using pacifiers in public, prompting a second and sometimes deeper look. For instance, I once saw a man in a DIY store. He was walking down the entire aisle and beyond, with two babies or young children in a stroller. However, he wasn’t simply cleaning them; it was more than just that. This kind of behavior is not commonly observed, and it draws attention.

Unlike some mothers I have observed who clean and interact with their babies immediately, this individual’s behavior stood out. It’s a testament to how unusual it is for an adult, especially one who appears to be responsible, to be engaging in behavior typically associated with infants. This brings into question whether an adult behavior viewed through an infant lens is perceived negatively by others.

The Perception of Maturity and Responsibility

Traditionally, the older an individual is, the more responsibility and consciousness they are expected to exhibit. This is intertwined with the expectation that a person will grow out of certain behaviors, such as the use of a pacifier. However, there are exceptions, which can vary greatly depending on the individual's circumstances and the specific behavior in question. The use of a pacifier by an adult can challenge these expectations.

Older adults who continue to use pacifiers might be perceived as more playful, less stressed, or simply more relaxed than their counterparts. Some may view it as a way of releasing stress or seeking comfort in a way that doesn’t involve alcohol or other non-physical dependencies. The perception can also vary based on social and cultural contexts. In some communities, individuals might not see the behavior as a negative indicator of mental or emotional maturity.

A Personal Account: The Use of a Long Pacificer

For me, personally, I am 56 years old and I use a pacifier every day. My pacifier is a solid pine piece that is 5 feet long, with a stopper at one end and a wire wrapped around the other. This is a unique and perhaps unusual form of pacifier, but it serves a purpose for me. I find that this particular pacifier helps me get out into the world comfortably and without the challenges that can come with the substitutions of traditional pacifiers.

Whether it’s the texture, the comfort, or the inherent help it provides in terms of stress or anxiety, the long pacifier serves a functional and emotional role for me. While I understand that it might be seen as unusual by others, for me, it is a matter of personal comfort and well-being.

The idea that an adult using a pacifier is perceived negatively is a broad generalization. However, it’s important to remember that perceptions can vary greatly based on individual circumstances and cultural contexts. Understanding and accepting these differences is key to fostering a more inclusive and nuanced view of adult behavior.

Does your community react more positively or negatively to this behavior? Share your thoughts in the comments below!