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The Economic Times
The Economic Times
National
Aastha Raj

Psychology says adults who call their parents daily aren't always more emotionally dependent

In many cultures, talking to parents every day is completely normal. In others, daily phone calls are sometimes viewed as a sign that an adult is overly dependent or unwilling to become independent. Psychology says the reality is much more nuanced. The frequency of contact alone tells us very little about someone's emotional maturity or independence. What matters is why the conversations happen and whether they support healthy relationships rather than replace personal decision-making. Research in family psychology shows that regular contact with parents can reflect affection, secure attachment, cultural values and mutual support. Emotional dependence, on the other hand, involves relying on someone else to regulate your emotions or make important decisions. These are very different patterns.

A person who enjoys speaking with their parents every evening may still be fully capable of living independently, making confident decisions and maintaining healthy boundaries.

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