I don’t know if emotional immaturity is the highest form of immaturity, but I’m pretty certain it’s way up on the list.
I was once in a situation where someone hurled accusations at me via text. The hateful words—along with being denied an opportunity to respond or share my thoughts—left me wondering, Who does that?
What kind of person talks smack during a one-sided conversation and then doesn’t allow the accused to confirm or deny?
Encounters with emotionally immature adults can leave you feeling hurt, dismissed, unseen, and/or ignored. That’s because such people
- Have trouble relating to other adults
- Are impulsive and quick to escalate the situation
- Have difficulty learning from their mistakes
- Alter their perceptions of reality to fit their own needs
- Blame others when things go wrong
- Put themselves first and discount other people’s ideas
- Are self-absorbed and live to be the center of attention
- Dislike compromise and always want to get their own way
- Rarely do emotional work or engage in self-reflection
Most of us have had the occasion to deal with someone who’s emotionally immature. You’ve likely noticed that interacting with them presents challenges.
Resist responding to their behavior. It simply reinforces their immaturity.
Instead, listen to them with empathy and the intent to understand—not with the intent to reply. Silence can speak volumes.
You have no control over others. Really, the only thing you can do is to change your expectations while doing your best to maintain a pleasing disposition.
“Q: How do you have a rational conversation with an emotionally immature adult?
A: You don’t. It’s impossible.” ~ LaurieTALK
