Peter Pan Syndrome More Likely To Affect Children of Overprotective Parents

The Peter Pan Syndrome is condition wherein people refuse to grow up, despite being physically an adult. It is not yet considered a psychological disorder by the World Health Organization, but more adults are displaying emotionally immature behavior in Western society.

Some are unwilling to accept adult responsibilities, dressing like teenagers in their thirties or beyond, and see adulthood as problematic, Humbelina Robles Ortega, an expert in emotional disorders at the University of Granada, said in a press release via Science Daily.

Peter Pan Syndrome Affects More Men Than Women

Parents overprotecting their children can lead to the development of the Peter Pan Syndrome, as dependent individuals may not have the necessary skills to face life and can become glorifiers of adolescence. The present-day 'Peter Pans' want to remain in their privileged state, avoiding adult responsibilities as they view adulthood as troublesome.

According to Healthline, Peter Pan syndrome is largely associated with males. A 2010 study from the University of Granada that looked at 29 young Navajo men and women showed that its symptoms are mostly seen in males.

Individuals with this disorder exhibit various traits such as neglecting responsibilities, avoiding commitment and breaking promises, an obsession with their appearance and personal well-being, and a lack of self-confidence despite outwardly appearing confident.

Researchers said that these individuals also have a fear of loneliness, which leads them to seek out people who can tend to their needs. They are often intolerant of criticism and may struggle to adapt to work and personal relationships.

Another characteristic of this disorder is a pattern of constantly changing partners, often seeking out younger ones to avoid the pressures of commitment and responsibility in more serious relationships.

However, researchers clarified that it is not always the case as women also experience Peter Pan syndrome. There is not enough data and evidence that compare this behavior across genders.

Wendy Syndrome: When Women Act Like Their Partner's Mother

Dan Kiley first introduced the concept of the 'Peter Pan Syndrome' in 1983 by psychologist Dan Kiley, the Cornerstone Family Services reports. He is also the one who coined the term 'Wendy Syndrome' to describe female partners or individuals who assume maternal roles in their relationships.

Robles explained that Wendy is crucial in the existence of Peter Pan because she completes the tasks that he avoids. It is Wendy who makes all decisions and takes on the responsibilities of her partner, justifying his unreliability. This behavior is not limited to romantic relationships and can be seen in overprotective mothers within a family.

Robles highlights that the main drawback of these syndromes is that the affected individuals usually do not recognize that they have a problem. The solution, therefore, is proper psychological treatment focused not only on the individual but also on his/her family and partner to provide support to individuals suffering from these disorders.