Honest review of The Adult Baby: An identity on the dissociation spectrum

by Dylan Lewis (Author) Dax Jordan (Author)

Updated at: 14/01/2025

Dylan Lewis and Dax Jordan's "The Adult Baby (Diaper Version): An Identity on the Dissociation Spectrum" offers a groundbreaking exploration of Adult Baby identity. This comprehensive 65,000-word study challenges conventional understanding, arguing that the Adult Baby identity resides on the dissociation spectrum, potentially representing a less severe manifestation than Dissociative Identity Disorder. Whether you are an Adult Baby, a partner, or a therapist working with Adult Babies, this meticulously researched book provides crucial insights into the behaviors, motivations, and underlying psychological dynamics of this identity. Prepare for a profound understanding of the Adult Baby experience and the path towards greater self-awareness and acceptance.

4.3 / 25 ratings

Review The Adult Baby

"The Adult Baby (Diaper Version): An Identity on the Dissociation Spectrum" completely reshaped my understanding of my own identity as an adult baby (AB). Before reading it, I viewed my "Little" self as simply a state of mind, a role I played when the mood struck. Lewis and Jordan's book, however, presented a groundbreaking perspective: that my Little is a distinct personality within my psyche, a "Little me" with his own agency and charm. This wasn't just a whimsical notion; the authors built a compelling case, meticulously researched and thoughtfully presented.

The book's strength lies in its academic rigor. While accessible and engaging, it doesn't shy away from complex psychological concepts. The authors draw extensively from the DSM-V and other reputable psychological studies, intelligently addressing the controversies surrounding DID and its relationship to AB identities, classifying the latter under OSDD (Other Specified Dissociative Disorder). This thoroughness gave the book significant weight, making its arguments all the more convincing. It felt less like self-help and more like a professional publication, despite the authors' acknowledgment of lacking formal psychiatric training.

The book challenged many preconceived notions. It powerfully argues against the common interpretations of AB as purely fetishistic or paraphilic. Instead, it positions the AB identity as a nuanced aspect of the dissociation spectrum, offering a new lens through which to understand the dynamics between a person's "Big" and "Little" selves. For me, this was transformative. It validated my experience and gave me a framework for understanding the complex relationship between my adult persona and my Little one. It helped me conceptualize my Little as a separate, co-conscious entity, not just a fleeting mood or a state of mind. Giving my Little his own "real estate" in my mind, as the authors suggest, has enriched my self-understanding and improved my ability to navigate the complexities of being both a professional adult and someone who enjoys expressing their inner child.

I particularly appreciated the authors' exploration of the diverse experiences within the AB community. They acknowledge that while childhood trauma is prevalent among ABs, it’s not a universal prerequisite. This resonated deeply with me, as my own journey into AB identity stemmed not from trauma, but from a desire to preserve the joy and innocence of my positive childhood experiences. This book validated that my experience is legitimate and doesn't need to fit a pre-defined trauma narrative.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone identifying as an AB, their partners, and mental health professionals working with individuals exploring this aspect of their identity. It's a well-written, well-researched, and deeply insightful work that challenged my thinking and enriched my understanding of myself. It's more than just a book; it’s a tool for self-discovery and acceptance. I highly recommend it.