Dr. Lecturer Nihan Kalkandelen Özdin from the Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Üsküdar University, gave a presentation titled “Peter Pan Within Us”. In her speech, Dr. Özdin made evaluations about the fear of growth, which is often observed in young individuals aged 18-25 and referred to as ‘Peter Pan Syndrome’.
“Peter Pan Syndrome emerges when a peaceful environment cannot be established”
Dr. Lecturer Özdin emphasized that to delve into the source of the fear of growth, it is necessary to focus on family relationships, stating that young people should be given a say in household decisions, opportunities to bear some responsibilities, assert their own identity, and try their autonomy. Özdin pointed out that considering disagreements between young people and their parents stem from misperceptions of each other and lack of communication, the parents' showing interest and a compassionate approach would keep the relationship peaceful. Dr. Lecturer Özdin used the expressions; “Peter Pan Syndrome emerges when this peaceful environment cannot be established, and there are insurmountable communication barriers and conflicts between the young person and the parent.”
“The character of Peter Pan is a symbol of eternal youth and endless childhood”
Dr. Lecturer Özdin, stating that the character of Peter Pan is a symbol of eternal youth and endless childhood, drew attention to the fact that this symbolizes a situation where the responsibilities of adult life never become a burden on the individual's shoulders. Dr. Özdin said; “In other words, remaining a child is equivalent to not taking responsibility.” At the end of her speech, Dr. Lecturer Özdin emphasized that examining the societal cause-and-effect relationships of this individual-specific escape, which prevents people from maturing, is also essential for solving the problem.