infantilize
/ɪnˈfæntɪlaɪz/
verb
- To treat someone as if they are a child, often by denying them responsibility or autonomy.
- Parents should not infantilize their teenagers if they want them to grow into independent adults.
- The manager tends to infantilize his staff by making all decisions for them.
- The new policy infantilizes students by requiring permission for even minor activities.
Synonyms