Abstract
M.Phil. (Industrial Psychology)
Psychological neoteny is a relatively new concept in the field of psychology, and refers to the retention of youthful characteristics into adulthood. Research on this concept is limited, but there is knowledge of potential benefits it holds for our youthful, creative, and innovative society, particularly in the workplace. The main aims of this study were to investigate (1) the relationship between psychological neoteny and age and (2) to determine whether gender moderates the relationship between psychological neoteny and age. The study was conducted by means of a quantitative, cross-sectional research design. The Neoteny Personality Questionnaire (NPQ) was administered to working individuals and students in the Gauteng Province (n = 391). The results indicated that psychological neoteny has no relation to age. Furthermore, the results indicated that gender does not moderate the relationship between psychological neoteny and age.