Understanding and Treating Marital Infidelity: A Multidimensional Model

Abstract

Marital infidelity is a multifaceted problem that frequently causes couples to enter marital therapy. In this article, seven broad categories of extramarital relationships are reviewed. Certain personality factors are identified that must be taken into consideration when evaluating whether the problematic behavior is symptomatic of an axis II personality disorder, reflects less severe characterological weaknesses, or is due to other considerations. Marital dynamics, especially how spouses perceive the voluntary/non-voluntary nature of their marriage, is shown to be another important factor in determining the course, goals and outcome of therapy when infidelity is the presenting problem. An additional group of factors, e.g., marital disaffection, trust, desire to improve the marriage, willingness to reconcile, and the capacity to give and receive forgiveness is also important to take into account when gauging a couples' motivation for treatment.