1. Naivety and Lack of Understanding: Bruno is nine years old, and his world is very small. He lacks the capacity to understand the complex realities of war, prejudice, and the Holocaust. He views the "farm" across the fence as a place where his new friend, Shmuel, lives, without comprehending the true nature of the concentration camp.
2. Self-Centeredness and Lack of Empathy: Bruno's actions are often driven by his own desires and needs. He's upset about having to leave Berlin and doesn't fully grasp the gravity of his family's situation. He doesn't consider the suffering of others, especially Shmuel, and his actions are ultimately harmful.
3. Lack of Responsibility: Bruno's actions, like entering the camp and exchanging clothes with Shmuel, are impulsive and reckless. He doesn't consider the consequences of his actions and fails to understand the danger he's putting himself and Shmuel in.
4. Limited Perspective: Bruno's understanding of the world is limited by his age and upbringing. He sees things in black and white, good and bad, with little room for complexity or nuance. This prevents him from truly comprehending the moral implications of his actions.
5. Fear of the Unknown: Bruno's immaturity is also reflected in his fear of the unknown. He's scared of the "farm" and avoids talking about it with his parents. He doesn't want to acknowledge the reality of the situation and escapes into his childish fantasies.
Bruno's immaturity is crucial to the story's impact. It highlights the innocence lost during wartime and the tragic consequences of ignorance. Bruno's actions, though well-intentioned, are ultimately driven by his limited understanding and create a devastating outcome. The reader is left to grapple with the consequences of his choices and the complexities of the situation.