In Defense of “Mom” and “Dad”

Why I Would Never Call My Parents By Their First Names

An adult daughter with her mother — image via Canva

There is a growing trend of children, especially teens and adult children, calling their parents by their first names. When I was growing up (not that long ago), such a thing was unthinkable. Part of me still wishes it was unthinkable.

Call me old-fashioned but I can’t help but be troubled by what appears (at least to me) to be an erosion of familial respect and affection.

Several trends are influencing this development, including:

• Shifts in Parenting Styles: Modern parenting styles have increasingly moved towards a more open, democratic, and friend-like relationship between parents and children. Calling parents by their first names can be a reflection of this more egalitarian approach.
• Increasing Western Individualism: In many Western cultures, there’s a strong emphasis on individualism and personal expression. This cultural value may influence the way children and young adults assert their independence and identity, including how they address their parents
• Desire for Autonomy and Equality: As children grow into teenagers and adults, their desire for autonomy and to be seen as equals within the family unit can increase. The use of first names can symbolize or directly express…