Objectives <p>This study examines the complex dynamics of father-daughter relationships, focusing on how life history factors are associated with paternal behaviors towards daughters. Drawing on Life history Theory and the Daughter-Guarding hypothesis, the research investigates how these factors contribute to father-daughter interactions, such as attachment, protection, support, and control received from fathers.</p> Methods <p>Two surveys were conducted: one with 120 daughters aged 18–21 (Study 1) and another with 120 fathers (Study 2), both recruited through online platforms. Study 1 examined the relationship from the daughters’ perspective, while Study 2 explored it from the fathers’ perspective.</p> Results <p>Fathers with higher education and stable financial backgrounds showed stronger attachment, support, and protection to their daughters. Additionally, daughters’ self-perceived attractiveness was associated with paternal behaviors, suggesting that attractive daughters were more likely to receive support, protection, and develop stronger attachments to their fathers.</p> Conclusions <p>The findings emphasize the need for further research into the relationships of these factors, particularly across diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, to better understand their role in shaping father-daughter relationships and the potential effects on female development.</p>