The Peter Pan and Wendy syndrome: a marital dynamic

Aust N Z J Psychiatry. 1982 Jun;16(2):23-8. doi: 10.3109/00048678209161187.

Abstract

A marital system is described which features an unfaithful and narcissistic husband, Peter Pan, and a long suffering and depressed wife, Wendy. The dynamics of their individual adjustments are examined as well as the symbiotic nature of the dyadic relationship. Other characters take their parts--Tinker Bell, Tiger Lily, and Little Lost Boys. Peter's infidelities belie a firm attachment to his Wendy/mother whilst she depends upon him for protection from forbidden impulses.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anxiety Disorders / psychology
  • Conflict, Psychological
  • Depressive Disorder / psychology
  • Female
  • Gender Identity
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations*
  • Literature, Modern
  • Male
  • Marital Therapy / methods
  • Marriage*
  • Narcissism
  • Object Attachment
  • Psychoanalytic Interpretation
  • Rejection, Psychology