The role of father neglect and abuse in the romantic relationship and mate choice experiences of young women: a phenomenological analysis.

BACKGROUND

For girls, the father is the first man they meet and also the first opportunity to recognise the characteristics of the opposite sex. Within the scope of this research, aims to examine the romantic relationship and mate selection experiences of young women with a history of paternal neglect and abuse.

METHODS

In line with this purpose, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 female participants selected by purposive sampling and snowball sampling in order to examine the phenomenon in detail. Considering the analysis of the interviews and the uniqueness of the participants’ experiences, Smith and Osborn’s Interpretative Phenomenological analysis steps were followed.

RESULTS

As a result of the analyses, it was seen that four main themes, namely ‘Characteristics of traumatic experience, relationship with the father, women’s partner preferences, and coping resources’ and fourteen sub-themes explaining these themes emerged. The findings provide an opportunity to understand the role of paternal traumas in women’s choice of romantic partners and mates and to explore the resources they can use to cope with these traumas.

CONCLUSION

In line with the results obtained, suggestions are presented to improve the romantic relationship and mate selection experiences of young women with a history of paternal neglect and abuse and to increase their mental health by establishing healthy relationships.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40359-025-02943-2.