In every culture and in any century, sons are usually closer to their mothers than to their fathers. Just have a look at a family photo album!
More often than not, a little boy is sat on his mum’s lap, with dad farther away.
Father is usually a role model for a young boy; he admires his dad and copies him. At the same time, the boy accepts his father’s authority: tends to behave well in his presence, and tries to impress him.
As the boy grows up and becomes a teenager, he will continue treating his father with respect (if he still feels the latter is a good role model). However, he might also start analysing his father, his relationship with his wife (boy’s mum), and even become jealous of the time mum spends with her husband.
Growing up boys could challenge their fathers, too.
With his mum, son could be completely relaxed at all times- no need to impress her whatsoever, she adores him whatever he does. His mum is his first love! He will probably learn to kiss via kissing her :o)
There is a potential caveat to beautiful closeness most of mothers and sons enjoy. Young boys are more fragile mentally (than the girls) and less able to withstand complex family dynamics. Some mothers could be tempted to reach out to their sons for support and affection that they feel they are not getting elsewhere, thus reversing the supporting and nurturing role that good mother adopts with her son.
If maternal needy behaviour/complex family dynamics continues for some length of time, it could be damaging for developing personality of her son. It is a known fact, that having needy/mentally ill mother is a significant risk factor for mental illness development in a young man.
If we understand the natural tendencies in family dynamics, it might not only help us to both develop and maintain peace and harmony within our families, but could also reduce the risk of mental illness in our loved ones.