Abstract

Early childhood relationships, especially with mothers, shape emotional behavior and adult intimacy. While studies show maternal attachment influences emotional expression and relationship quality, research on male students in discipline-focused programs, like criminology, is limited. This study addresses that gap by examining how maternal attachment affects emotional intimacy among male third- and fourth-year BS Criminology students at Bestlink College of the Philippines, providing insight into their emotional development and romantic relationships. A quantitative descriptive–correlational design was used with 120 male 3rd- and 4th-year BS Criminology students at Bestlink College of the Philippines, selected via purposive sampling. Maternal attachment and emotional intimacy were measured using the IPPA-R and EIS. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and Pearson r, ensuring ethical standards. This study examined maternal attachment and emotional intimacy among male students in romantic relationships, all raised by single mothers. Most were aged 22–23 years and in long-term relationships. Respondents reported high maternal attachment in trust (M = 4.15) and communication (M = 3.63), with moderate emotional connectedness (M = 3.58). Emotional intimacy in romantic relationships was high (M = 4.31), and maternal attachment showed a significant positive relationship with intimacy (r = 0.30, p = 0.001), particularly trust and communication. Challenges included emotional silence and difficulty expressing emotions, highlighting the influence of maternal attachment on adult relational functioning. This study found that maternal attachment positively influences emotional intimacy among male BS Criminology students raised by single mothers. While secure bonds enhanced trust and closeness, some participants still struggled with expressing emotions, suggesting areas for support.