Babying

Babying refers to the act of treating someone, often an adult, like a baby; providing excessive care, attention, and leniency. It involves shielding someone from difficulties, responsibilities, or natural consequences, often to the point of hindering their growth or independence. The term implies an overprotective or condescending approach, stemming from a desire to nurture or control, but ultimately undermining the individual's ability to cope with the world. This can manifest through excessive coddling, constant reassurance, and a reluctance to allow the person to face challenges on their own.

Babying meaning with examples

• The new manager was babying the team, constantly checking in on them and doing their work for them. He wanted to build a positive relationship but, in fact, this discouraged the team from problem-solving and taking initiative. Eventually, they started to rely on his direction to avoid conflict.
• After her injury, her family started babying her. They fetched her food and did her chores, but this was delaying her recovery. While their intentions were good, it was preventing her from gradually rebuilding her strength and confidence. She just needed to focus on the healing.
• Despite being capable, the company was babying its employees by holding their hands through every task. This approach had the counter effect as it stifled creativity and innovation, as well as hindering their ability to build the experience required for growth. It was a counter-productive system.
• The parent was often babying their teenager, giving them whatever they wanted and making excuses for their behaviour. They were afraid to push back and set boundaries because of the teenager's strong will. But, without boundaries, they felt the relationship was doomed to fail.