Tag Archives: man-child

1 Corinthians 13:11, which states, “When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.”

The boy-man charmer. Peter Pan at 60 isn’t nearly as adorable as at 20.

Ever notice some guys who act like eternal boys—charming, fun, but allergic to responsibility? That’s Peter Pan syndrome in a nutshell: Adult men stuck in Neverland, dodging commitment, chores, or emotional maturity. They want the perks of adulthood (freedom, fun) without the grown-up parts (bills, accountability, sacrifice).

In my family, I have a couple of brothers who fit the Peter Pan syndrome. I love them dearly, but I can’t hang out with them for extended periods of time.

In relationships, it’s toxic. The “Peter” expects you to be Wendy—nurturing, cleaning up messes—while he plays hooky from life. I see echoes in past relationships: All control, zero emotional growth. Red flags? Avoidance of tough talks, financial irresponsibility, blaming others, or bailing when things get real. They unknowingly tend to prioritize personal desires over the needs of others. With the Peter Pans in my past, their main escape was going out with the boys. They often drank excessively.

If you’re in a relationship, ladies, don’t treat a man like a child. Healthy love requires two adults. Encourage growth gently, but set boundaries: “I need a partner, not a project.” Therapy helps Peters fly toward maturity. For us? Choose Tink—sprinkle pixie dust on your own wings and soar solo if needed. Independence isn’t scary; it’s a matter of freedom.

Now, I am not suggesting there’s anything wrong if you are a big kid at heart. I am suggesting embracing the importance of adult responsibilities. Develop self-awareness. If you’re in the trenches, know this: Healing comes. Courage builds. True love respects you first. What’s your fairy tale twist? Share below—I’d love to hear. For more on how fairy tale fantasies can mask emotional dysfunction, read my earlier reflection: