Parlez-Vous Twixter?

This stage of life isn't solely an American phenomenon. It's popping up around the world under different names

By Deirdre Van Dyk Monday, Jan. 24, 2005

    • CANADA

    Boomerang kids A growing population of young Canadians are living in their parents' home and delaying starting families of their own. Experts point to a tight job market.

    Median age at marriage Men: 28 Women: 26

    Average age at birth of first child Women: 27.7

    ENGLAND

    KIPPERS The acronym stands for kids in parents' pockets eroding retirement savings. Increasing numbers of British twentysomethings are staying with Mum and Dad as a refuge from rising costs.

    Median age at marriage Men: 29.7 Women: 27.7

    Average age at birth of first child Women: 29.7

    FRANCE

    Tanguy syndrome The name comes from a 2001 film about a charming 28-year-old who refuses to move out of his parents' apartment despite their comical efforts to get him out. The movie highlighted the trend and sparked debate.

    Median age at marriage Men: 29.2 Women: 27.1

    Average age at birth of first child Women: 30.4

    GERMANY

    Nesthocker Literally translates as nest squatter. One researcher says the reluctance of so many Germans to go out on their own could be attributed to the fact that they regard their parents as friends.

    Median age at marriage Men: 30.3 Women: 27.1

    Average age at birth of first child Women: 29

    ITALY

    Mammone A description of the young men and women who won't give up Mamma's cooking. The number of them living at home has risen to nearly 50% in the past decade, perhaps the highest rate in Europe.

    Average age at marriage Men: 30.5 Women: 27.6

    Average age at birth of first child Women: 28.4

    JAPAN

    Freeter The term, a combination of free and arbeiter, the German word for worker, describes an unmarried young adult who job hops and lives at home. The trend has even been debated in parliament.

    Median age at marriage Men: 28 Women: 27

    Average age at birth of first child Women: 28.6

    --By Deirdre van Dyk, with bureau reports