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Children Quote by Jerold J. Kreisman

“She felt like a child clad in the armour of an adult. She was perplexed at the respect she received from other adults; she expected them to see through her disguise at any moment, revealing her as an empress with no clothes. She needed someone to love and protect her from the world. She…” quote by Jerold J. Kreisman
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““She felt like a child clad in the armour of an adult. She was perplexed at the respect she received from other adults; she expected them to see through her disguise at any moment, revealing her as an empress with no clothes. She needed someone to love and protect her from the world. She desperately sought closeness, but when someone came too close, she ran.””

Jerold J. Kreisman

About This Quote

Source Book: The Lonely Crowd by David Riesman, 1950 (paraphrased)

A child‑like adult hides behind a façade, craving love but fleeing intimacy when approached.

In simple terms: Adult hides behind childlike armor, seeks love, runs from closeness.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and balance vulnerability with openness.

Themes

identity vulnerability relationships self‑protection intimacy

Mood

empathetic thoughtful

Type

psychological relational

When to use this quote

  • dating
  • therapy
  • family dynamics
  • friendship

Key Concepts

psychology social masks

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we build protective personas?
  • How can we safely allow closeness?
A Different Perspective

May oversimplify complex adult attachment issues.

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