Is Your Partner a Manchild? Discover the Truth with These 3 Questions.

If you’re into Sabrina Carpenter’s music, you might have come across her latest track, “Manchild.” This song touches on a theme that’s all too familiar to many women.

The term “manchild” refers to an adult male who exhibits immature and irresponsible behavior.

“A manchild behaves more like a young boy than someone of his age,” explained Dr. Marisa T. Cohen, PhD, a relationship specialist with the dating app Hily. “In more severe cases, this immaturity might even be deliberate, making their partner feel needed to take care of them.”

Essentially, some men might underplay their capabilities to look after themselves or their surroundings, forcing others to handle these responsibilities.

Dr. Cohen provided some tips on spotting a “manchild” so you can steer clear of this kind of toxic personality. She suggests asking your date these three questions.

1. “How do you handle challenging situations?”

It’s not always easy to understand how someone manages conflict until they’re in the midst of it. That’s why it’s often advised to see how your partner reacts during your first argument before you really understand them.

By inquiring about how they handle difficult situations, you can gain insight into their conflict resolution skills.

“This inquiry can reveal quite a bit about how your date copes when the going gets tough,” said Dr. Cohen. “Do they have effective coping mechanisms, or do they just improvise? Their response can reveal their self-awareness, their perseverance under pressure, and their overall emotional stability. Moreover, it’s a useful indicator of their emotional maturity.”

Dr. Cohen also cautioned about choosing a partner who avoids conflict, as relationships will inevitably face challenges. If your partner tends to disappear or withdraw during these times, they might be a “manchild.”

2. “What does self-care mean to you?”

The way a person takes care of themselves can reveal a lot about their maturity, independence, and readiness for a relationship.

“Asking about their self-care practices is a subtle way to understand how they maintain their own well-being,” Dr. Cohen remarked. “You’ll learn about their needs, how they manage life’s demands, and perhaps their approach to stress and mental health. It’s a straightforward question, but it’s very telling!”

3. “What achievement are you most proud of, and how did you accomplish it?”

This question may seem light and easy, but it can provide deep insights into what your date values and their level of ambition.

“This two-part question is great for understanding your date’s major achievements and their approach to obstacles,” said Dr. Cohen. “You’ll hear about their successes and the resilience they demonstrated along the way.”

“It’s also a good measure of their problem-solving skills, their drive, and their willingness to work towards their goals,” she added. “Plus, it’s an excellent conversation starter—people usually enjoy discussing their triumphs!”