Late 20th Century's new age movement gives name to highly-intelligent children

Indigo children was a phenomenon popularized in the late 20th century, primarily in the New Age and spiritual communities. It referred to a unique group of children believed to possess extraordinary qualities and capabilities. The term was coined by Nancy Ann Tappe, who claimed to have the ability to see the aura colors of individuals, with indigo being one of them. Often associated with spirituality and metaphysical beliefs, the idea of indigo children has captured the imagination of many. 

 According to The New York Times, these children possess four main personality traits. Self-confidence: Indigo children often display a deep sense of purpose and a desire to make the world a better place. Another trait that many indigo children possess is being highly creative and intuitive. They may excel in artistic and spiritual pursuits, with a heightened sense of empathy and psychic abilities. The other two characteristics of these children consist of nonconformity and sensitivity. Indigo children are believed to challenge traditional authority and societal norms. They are also thought to be highly sensitive to their environment, often experiencing sensory overload in crowded or noisy places. Their sensitivity extends to emotional and empathic dimensions, making them compassionate individuals.

Psychologists have suggested that the traits attributed to indigo children can be explained by various factors, including upbringing and personality development. Some experts think the indigo child label is being used as a band-aid of sorts for kids who are potentially dealing with undiagnosed issues like autism, ADHD, or attention deficit disorder, according to the website How Stuff Works. Putting the label “indigo children” on these individuals could delay addressing problems through traditional channels of proper diagnosis and treatment. 

Indigo children represent a fascinating and controversial concept that has recently gained popularity. Whether one believes in the existence of indigo children or not, the concept has sparked discussions about human potential, consciousness, and the evolving needs of society. While some may view it as a spiritual belief, others see it as a reflection of societal changes and the search for deeper meaning in our lives.


Kayla Phillips