This study examined the interconnections between cultural orientation (individualism vs. collectivism), childhood parenting styles, and their combined influence on intimacy in adulthood. While prior research has explored these factors separately, few studies have integrated parenting style and cultural orientation to investigate their joint impact on intimacy and relational dynamics. Meta-analytic findings suggest that authoritarian parenting is more prevalent in collectivistic cultures, where group harmony and collective well-being are prioritized over individual needs and autonomy. Additionally, studies show that authoritative parenting—marked by a balance of structure and responsiveness—has been associated with higher levels of intimacy, particularly in friendships. Though research on romantic relationships remains limited, existing evidence suggests that authoritative parenting promotes greater overall intimacy, which may extend to romantic contexts. Conversely, collectivistic cultures are often associated with lower intimacy levels compared to individualistic cultures, possibly due to reduced autonomy, a critical factor in fostering secure attachments and intimacy. This study sought to address these gaps by examining these variables in tandem. A convenience sample of 34 undergraduate students from Eastern Connecticut State University participated in the study by completing validated self-report measures: the Parental Authority Questionnaire, the Individualism-Collectivism Interpersonal Assessment Inventory, and the Personal Assessment of Intimacy in Relationships-Revised. The study hypothesized that (1) collectivism would positively correlate with authoritarian parenting, (2) authoritative parenting would positively correlate with intimacy, and (3) collectivism would negatively correlate with intimacy. Using Pearson's r correlation, results confirmed significant relationships between collectivism and authoritarian parenting; participants who experienced authoritarian parenting were more likely to come from collectivistic cultural backgrounds. However, no significant correlations were observed between parenting style and intimacy or between culture and intimacy. These findings highlight the complexity of these relationships and underscore the importance of further research with larger, more diverse samples.

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