Definition

1. Noun:
   • Excessive attachment to or dependence on one's mother: "Momism" refers to an overdeveloped or unhealthy emotional dependence on a mother, often characterized by excessive maternal protection, dominance, or control that hinders a child's, particularly a son's, psychological independence and maturity.

Usage

• The term is used in sociological and psychological contexts to describe a family dynamic or a personality trait. It often carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of autonomy in the individual due to an overpowering maternal influence.
• Example:

Examples

• Noun:
  • Some mid-20th century social critics blamed momism for a perceived decline in masculine vigor.
  • His momism was evident in his need to call his mother for approval before making any decision.

Advanced Usage

• The term was popularized in the 1940s by author Philip Wylie in his book , where he used it critically to describe a perceived cultural phenomenon of overbearing motherhood in American society.
• It is often discussed in the context of Freudian or psychodynamic theories about development.

Variants and Related Words

• Momist (noun, rare): A person, typically a son, who exhibits the characteristics of momism.
• Matriarchy (noun): A social system where women, especially mothers, hold primary power. While related to structures of power, it is a broader sociological term than the psychological "momism."

Synonyms

• Oedipus complex (in psychoanalytic theory, specifically referring to a son's attachment): A more specific clinical term with different theoretical foundations.
• Excessive maternal attachment: A descriptive phrase with a similar meaning.
• Mother fixation: A less formal synonym.

Antonyms

• Independence: The state of being free from the control or influence of others.
• Autonomy: Self-governing independence.

Related Idioms/Phrases

• Tied to one's mother's apron strings: An idiom describing someone, usually a man, who is excessively dependent on or controlled by his mother. This is a common figurative expression for the concept of "momism."
  • Example: At thirty years old, he's still tied to his mother's apron strings and won't move out of her house.

Noun

1. excessive protection