Ephebiphobia (from the Greek ephebo, "adolescent") is the irrational fear of young people . Recent studies indicate that it is aimed mainly at subjects between the ages of 25 and 34 . The term was first used in 1994 by Kirk A. Astroth, a researcher at the University of Arizona. It is usually due to the spread of negative stereotypes or bad experiences with adolescents and young people, who are perceived as disrespectful towards their parents, impatient, violent and lacking in self-control, as well as prone to harmful habits such as excessive alcohol consumption and drugs.
The recent spread of this phobia among adults is beginning to be of concern to sociologists and economists, who warn that it could have a negative impact on democratic societies and the global economy if it prevents new generations from accessing public and political life and cultural. Not for nothing can it lead to ageism or age discrimination.
