Rape Accused Gets Bail Based On Peter Pan Syndrome - Learn What It Is?

Peter Pan Syndrome: The rape accused suffering from 'Peter Pan Syndrome' got bail. It is used to describe the psychological state of people who are socially immature.

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On Monday, the Bombay High Court granted bail to a 23-year-old rape accused. He was accused of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl. The grounds of bail in the court became the psychological condition of the accused - he was suffering from the 'Peter Pan Syndrome.'

What is the Peter Pan Syndrome?

Peter Pan Syndrome is a psychological condition used to describe an adult. This syndrome is found more in men than in women. Adult males or females with the syndrome are socially immature. According to the counsel for the accused, this refers to the situation when adult men and women run away from their personal and professional responsibilities of adulthood as they find it challenging to fulfill them. This behaviour or condition is known as the Peter Pan Syndrome. Psychologist Dr. Dan Kelly first used the term 'Peter Pan Syndrome' in his book to explain this type of behavior. The lawyer told the court that the victim's family knew about their relationship.

The Syndrome Became the Basis for Bail

However, they did not approve of the boy because of his illness and poor background. The victim's family allegedly did not share a good relationship with the family members of the accused. He also added that the victim voluntarily had a relationship with the accused. It must be noted that the Peter Pan syndrome is not recognised as a mental health condition by the World Health Organization. It is also not listed in the category of mental illness. However, some experts believe that this behavioural pattern can have a serious impact on one's relationships and quality of life. The origins of the Peter Pan syndrome are found in literature. The name is borrowed from the character Peter Pan who appeared in a play by Scottish novelist and playwright JM Barrie. The main character of the play, Peter Pan, is a mischievous boy who can fly.