Introduction
Emotional intimacy is a central element of close relationships, and difficulties in expressing intimacy often result in fear of intimacy, which contributes to psychological distress and relational problems (Thelen et al., 2000; Finzi-Dottan & Abadi, 2024). Object relations theory emphasizes that early relational experiences shape later interpersonal patterns (St. Clair & Wigren, 2000), and experiences of rejection in childhood may heighten rejection sensitivity, which has been consistently linked to intimacy difficulties (Downey et al., 2005; Shahabi et al., 2021; Senese et al., 2020; Ashdown et al., 2020). Based on this framework, the present study investigated whether rejection sensitivity mediates the relationship between object relations and fear of intimacy.

Method
This study adopted a descriptive–correlational design with structural equation modeling (SEM). The population consisted of adults aged 18–50 in Tehran during 2023. Following Klein’s (2005) recommendations, 252 participants were recruited through convenience sampling, with 247 valid responses analyzed. Data were collected using Bell’s Object Relations Inventory (1995), the Rejection Sensitivity Questionnaire (Downey & Feldman, 1996), and the Fear of Intimacy Scale (Descutner & Thelen, 1991). All instruments showed acceptable internal consistency, and analyses were conducted with AMOS 24.
Results
Findings showed that object relations had significant direct effects on both rejection sensitivity and fear of intimacy. Rejection sensitivity also exerted a significant direct effect on fear of intimacy, and Sobel test results confirmed its mediating role. Model fit indices indicated that the proposed model was adequate. These results demonstrate that object relations influence fear of intimacy both directly and indirectly through rejection sensitivity.

Discussion
The results are consistent with previous research linking object relations and rejection sensitivity to intimacy difficulties (Shahabi et al., 2021; Senese et al., 2020; Ashdown et al., 2020). According to object relations theory, insecure or rejecting early experiences may become internalized, leading individuals to expect rejection and avoid closeness in adulthood (Summers, 2024). Identifying rejection sensitivity as a mediator highlights clinical implications: interventions aimed at reducing rejection sensitivity may help individuals with insecure attachment histories form healthier intimate relationships. However, the reliance on convenience sampling and the restricted age range limit generalizability. Future studies should explore additional variables such as attachment style, emotion regulation, and trauma history. Overall, this study underscores the importance of object relations and rejection sensitivity in shaping fear of intimacy and offers valuable directions for both clinical practice and future research.