Abstract
Intergenerational dynamics might strengthen family ties, which are formed by the reciprocal interaction of people's emotional experiences. Using a dyadic approach, this study sought to investigate the reciprocal relationships between mothers’ and daughters’ feelings of self-hate and belonging. There were 253 mother–adult daughter pairs (N = 506) in the study. Mothers averaged 47.97 years old (SD = 5.22), and daughters averaged 22.26 years old (SD = 7.25). To gauge the pertinent constructs, the Self-Hate Scale and the Belongingness Scale were used. Descriptive statistics, normality tests, reliability coefficients, correlation analysis, and the Actor–Partner Interdependence Model were used in a dual approach to data analysis. Mother and daughter self-hatred negatively predicted belongingness. As a partner effect, mothers’ self-hate predicts daughter belongingness, and daughter self-hate predicts mother belongingness. In this sense, it is evident that negative self-perceptions, such as self-hatred, can influence both the other person's emotional experience in a close relationship and the individual's psychological health. Therefore, it is advised that self-evaluation procedures and raising mutual emotional awareness be the main focus of interventions and preventive research aimed at improving the mother–daughter bond.