By: Lifestyle DeskNew Delhi | January 4, 2026 01:32 PM IST 4 min readSajay Dutt recently played SP Chaudhary Aslam, a Pakistani encounter specialist, in Dhurandar (Images: X/Jio Studios)Fathers are universally known to have a softer corner for their daughters. Some call them partial, lenient, more caring, and definitely more protective of them compared to their sons — and celebrities are no exception. One such movie star who candidly owned up to this was Sanjay Dutt, during an interview on the talk show Entertainment Ki Raat, Season 2, back in 2018.When the host, Saumya Tandon, who recently worked with him in Dhurandhar, asked if he would be okay with his son dating, Sanjay smiled and said, “Haan, wo theek hai” (“That’s absolutely fine”).The Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. actor then added his strong views on the possibility of his daughter falling in love: “Magar agar meri beti bol rahi hai ki pyar ho gaya hai, to wo bhi theek hai, par kaun hai bhai… Shayad mujhe paanch saal wapis jail jana pade” (“If my daughter says she’s in love, that’s also fine — but who is he? I might have to go back to jail for five years”). Sanjay Dutt with Iqra, his younger daughter with current wife Maanayata Dutt (Image: Facebook/Sanjay Dutt)Dutt’s confession, though shared jokingly, is a testament to how fathers may naturally be more protective of their daughters. This is not just a social assumption but a science-backed sentiment. In fact, a 2025 study published in Adaptive Human Behavior and Physiology, confirms this, while adding that protectiveness is especially profound among fathers with higher levels of education and income.Psychological reason behind this protectiveness “Fathers usually become extra protective of their daughters out of deep care and emotional attachment,” explains psychologist Arpita Kohli, revealing that this instinct comes from a genuine desire to shield them from harm or disappointment.“However, in some cases, this protectiveness may also stem from a fear of losing control — a belief that their daughter’s safety and decisions must remain under their supervision,” cautions the psychologist. Such feelings are often shaped by societal norms, past experiences, or anxieties about the challenges daughters might face in a changing world. “Essentially, it’s a mix of love, care, and sometimes an unconscious desire to maintain control.” Sanjay Dutt with Trishala, his eldest daughter born from his first marriage to the late Richa Sharma (Image: Facebook/Sanjay Dutt)How overprotective fathers affect daughtersIf a father “often says ‘no’ without discussion or feels anxious when his daughter makes independent choices, it may indicate “control” rather than protection. “Protecting means guiding with care and trust, while controlling involves imposing decisions without considering her opinions,” says the psychologist. Being overly protective can impact a daughter’s emotional development, confidence, and future relationships in the long run.Story continues below this ad“When fathers restrict their daughters’ independence too much, they may start doubting their own judgment or ability to make decisions. Over time, this can lower self-esteem and create a lingering fear of failure,” the psychologist tells indianexpress.com.“In relationships, such daughters may struggle with trust or become dependent on others for validation,” she further cautions.What healthy protectiveness looks likeTo avoid this, self-reflection is important. “Healthy protectiveness today means empowering daughters rather than restricting them,” says Kohli, while noting that modern fatherhood is about guiding with confidence and love, not fear — allowing daughters to grow into independent, self-assured women.Fathers should offer emotional support, listen without judgment, and encourage problem-solving instead of making every decision for them, according to the psychologist. It is also important to set boundaries based on mutual respect and to explain reasons for concern.“A father can identify the difference by examining his intentions and reactions. Open communication and trust are key signs of healthy protectiveness,” Kohli concludes.DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to For more lifestyle news, click here to join our WhatsApp Channel and also follow us on Instagram© IE Online Media Services Pvt LtdTags:Sanjay Dutt