Harold’s key influences such as, Maude representing the new generation of freethinkers redefining traditional values and his mother representing the older generation of parents coaching their near-absolute values of conformity, reflect the widening generation gap of the 1960s. The adult figures in Harold's life are not satisfied with his lifestyle and wish for him to appear more like themselves or demonstrate what they believe to be right. Although the paths they take in order to advance him into adulthood drastically change depending on their generational and cultural values. Harold’s mother, displeased with his fascination with death and suicidal attempts, takes his life into her own hands and recruits the help of a psychiatrist, a dating
