Abstract :
This study examined the association between perceived emotional closeness with migrant fathers during childhood and romantic relationship satisfaction in adulthood, with particular emphasis on the mediating role of adult attachment. Grounded in attachment theory and intergenerational transmission frameworks, the study is situated within the socio-cultural context of Pakistan, where labor migration frequently results in prolonged father–child separation. A cross-sectional design was employed with a sample of 150 married adults aged 25–40 years who reported having migrant fathers during their formative years. Participants completed standardized measures assessing perceived emotional closeness, adult attachment dimensions (anxiety and avoidance), and romantic relationship satisfaction. Mediation analysis using Hayes’ PROCESS Model 4 indicated that greater emotional closeness was significantly associated with higher romantic relationship satisfaction. This relationship was partially mediated by attachment anxiety and avoidance. The findings highlight the enduring psychological impact of early relational experiences and emphasize the importance of emotional availability despite physical absence. Implications for culturally sensitive interventions are discussed.