The provided text offers a comprehensive analysis of “adult children” in post-war Japan, detailing the societal and individual impacts on children who were forced into adult roles—such as caregivers and breadwinners—due to the chaos of World War II, poverty, and the loss of family. This study examines the historical context of the crisis, noting the high number of war orphans who survived on the streets or were exploited by relatives, and explores the profound psychological consequences like trauma, shame, and resilience experienced by this generation. Furthermore, the analysis traces the sociological effects on their education, career opportunities, and family formation, showing how their experiences influenced post-war social norms and welfare policies; finally, the text draws parallels to contemporary Japan, highlighting the struggles of modern "young carers" who similarly shoulder adult responsibilities, underscoring that the issue of premature adulthood persists today.