Speaking to Psychology Today, psychologist Jennifer Kromberg explains: “In my years of psychology practice, I’ve met very few women who did not unconsciously or consciously pick a romantic partner based on the characteristics of her father.”

And, for those of you who are smugly thinking that you’re dating someone who is completely unlike your father, Kromberg has news for you: “Even the women that state they chose partners who were opposite of their dad are basing their decisions on the relationship (or non-relationship) with dad – a choice to go opposite is still a choice based on dad.”

She does allow, however, that a woman who recognises that she has an unhealthy relationship with her father and subsequently opts to date someone as unlike him as possible, is far more likely to be to find a happy relationship than a woman who dates a version of her dad.

If the latter is us, though, then how do we break the cycle?

“If you find yourself struggling in your love life, and you are ready to end your struggle, seek the support of a qualified professional to help heal your childhood relational wounds,” advises Pathak.

“This will help you stop turning your adult romantic partners into replacement parents, and you can start to enjoy your love life.”

How your relationship with your dad affects your love life