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Adult Quote by Wallace Shawn

“Children, I always think, are just putting on a performance of being naive and not understanding anything. I have worked with children in films, and they're treated as adults and they just drop the pretense of being children.” quote by Wallace Shawn
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“Children, I always think, are just putting on a performance of being naive and not understanding anything. I have worked with children in films, and they're treated as adults and they just drop the pretense of being children.”

Wallace Shawn

About This Quote

Source Interview: Discussing acting with children, 2012

Children often mimic adult behavior, shedding naive pretenses when treated seriously.

In simple terms: Kids act adult-like when adults treat them as such.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and respect children's agency.

Themes

childhood performance authenticity

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

observational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • film sets
  • education
  • parenting
  • theatre
  • media production

Key Concepts

social roles identity formation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does adult treatment affect a child's self‑perception?
  • What can adults do to nurture authentic childhood?
A Different Perspective

Adults may impose expectations that limit genuine expression.

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