The term “daddy issues” is a phrase widely and readily used in society today. It is often attributed to women who date older men or struggle in some element of their relationships. What are daddy issues, really? What is the psychology behind a father complex, and how can someone work through these emotions?
What Is a Father Complex?
A father complex refers to a collection of ideas surrounding the archetype of the father. These associations develop unconsciously through interactions with the father or a father figure and exposure to different models of parenting. Some may be positive in nature, while others may be negative. It causes a need for approval, support, love, and understanding progresses into adulthood, and it may result in bad decisions with relationships. Furthermore, contrary to popular belief, men can also develop the father complex.
The Effect of the Father Complex in Relationships
The father complex can influence the way people think about fathers and father figures and how they act in their relationships, although they are not consciously aware of it. A person who views the father as a supportive and protective mentor, for example, may seek out father figures and feel comfortable with men who are similar to this archetype. Someone with negative associations might be uncomfortable around men who are reminders of the father. Men with father complexes tend to struggle with approval and self-worth, while women tend to yearn for protection and validation. With that in mind, every father complex is unique, and it can manifest in any number of ways.
How the “Father Complex” Became “Daddy Issues”
Originally, the phrase “father complex” was used to describe a man who had a distrusting relationship with his father. As psychologists explored the complex further though, they assigned the term to both genders. Somewhere along the way, society turned the “father complex” into “daddy issues“ and eventually attached the phrase only to women. However, in psychology, the father complex is used in reference to both genders. As the term “daddy issues” gained popularity, it became almost exclusively associated with women. However, both men and women can experience father complexes.
The best way to overcome a father complex is through therapy. A therapist can help you understand the root cause of your emotions and behaviors, then work with you to find personalized solutions for them. In the end, you will understand your mind better, and you will feel more in control of your actions.