Reading the title above, you may be reminded of the fictional cartoon story of Peter Pan, which tells the story of a boy who never grows up. Yes, right. The Peter Pan syndrome that you read above also describes the behavior of people who are never emotionally mature.
At first, Peter Pan syndrome was referred to as this behavioral pattern, which first appeared in Dan Kiley's 1983 book, Peter Pan Syndrome: Men Who Have Never Grown Up. However, in reality, this syndrome can affect people of any gender or culture.
Although it is not a mental health or personality condition that is a medical term, many experts agree that Petet Pan's behavior patterns can have an impact on a person's quality of life. So, what are the characteristics of people with Peter Pan Syndrome?
Symptoms of Peter Pan Syndrome
Again, Peter Pan syndrome is not a clinical diagnosis. The reason is, to this day, experts have not determined any official symptoms. However, this pattern of behavior often occurs around us, both in relationships, at work, and in the social environment.
According to Patrick Cheatham, a psychologist in Portland, Oregon, the characteristics of Peter Pan Syndrome appear from the nature of ambition, hope, and different life goals in making commitments in a relationship.
Most likely, people who have Peter Pan Syndrome will find it difficult to do anything alone. Starting from clothes and dirty dishes piled up, to difficulty making big decisions in his life.
Quoted from Mind Body Green, adults with Peter Pan syndrome avoid personal and professional responsibilities as adults. "They're just people who really don't want to grow up," psychotherapist and relationship expert Babita Spinelli, L.P., tells Mind Body Green.
Having Problems with Long Term Plans
As stated above, someone with Peter Pan syndrome has problems in relationships, both romantic and platonic. A clingy pattern of behavior is not a good idea for a relationship.
However, that doesn't mean they don't want to have a long-term relationship. It's just that they're afraid that taking on the responsibilities of a healthy relationship or not wanting to grow is a reason to break up, so it's possible.
Relying on Others
These characteristics are typical symptoms of Peter Pan syndrome. They often depend on their parents or family. "They can't do anything for themselves in a meaningful way or to be completely separated from their family of origin," says Gauri Khurana, M.D., a child and adult psychiatrist.
Don't Want To Grow
As you get older, your personality also grows emotionally and psychologically. However, most people with Peter Pan syndrome have no reason to grow. They enjoy life as usual and see nothing wrong with it.
Difficulty with Money
Every adult generally live their life with their own income. However, not for someone with Peter Pan syndrome. Because, for them, tracking personal finances is not a priority. They might even avoid it.
Avoiding Conflict
Emotionally, people with Peter Pan syndrome are not emotionally mature. They will as much as possible avoid things that trigger conflict and confrontation. Often they run away from problems.