Psychiatrist Dr. Nirmala Rao says, "Most mothers want to be needed and wanted by their grown up daughters. So, once you grow up and begin work, your mother tries to retain her identity through you, by being possessive."

Think you are the only one with a possessive mother? Think again. Here are five different women with five different possessive mother situations.

And Your Curfew Is…

Shaila Swanson, 26, media professional says, "My mother is very, very particular about what time I get home. In fact, even when I am out with my friends (she knows who all of them are), she will call if I overshoot my curfew (3:00 am) by thirty minutes."

Does Shaila's situation sound familiar?

Dr. Nirmala Rao says, "Most mothers put time restrictions on their daughters because they worry about what people will say when she comes home late. Besides, they worry about the girl's safety."

Talk to Mum: Remember that your mother is just looking out for you and she may not know that she is over possessive. She will also be unaware that her constant calls may be a source of embarrassment for you.

Talk to your mother and help her understand that you are now an adult. Tell her gently that though you understand that she looking out for you, you need your space.

"Who's That Boy?"

Rochelle Mascarenhas, 28, ad executive says, "Every time I talk to a boy (even though he is just my friend), my mum will want to who he is, where he is from and how I know him. I understand that she worries, probably even wants me to settle down, but this is just an invasion of my privacy."

Dr. Nirmala Rao says, "When a daughter lives at home, then she is bound to face questions about any boy that she speaks to. Considering that she is 28, her mother will probably be wondering whether she is seeing someone with the intention of marriage."

Talk to Mum: If you feel like your mum is being inquisitive then explain to her that the boys you are talking to are just friends. In case one particular man is more than a friend, then let her know very gently that you will tell her about your relationship when you are ready.