Common Factors in Christian Women's Preferences for Support When Dealing with a Spouse's Sexually Addictive or Compulsive Behaviors: The C.A.V.E.D. Theory

Abstract

While research exists on many issues relating to wives of sex addicts, there is a void in the literature regarding the kinds of support women find most beneficial when dealing with a spouse's sexually addictive or compulsive behavior. Using a qualitative, grounded theory methodology, 22 Christian women from Canada and the United States were interviewed to identify the types of support they found most beneficial when dealing with this multifaceted problem in a marriage. Additionally, the common factors of support which are summarized by the acronym C.A.V.E.D. (Connection, Advocacy, Validation, Education and Direction) emerged from the analysis of the interviews.

At the time of the study, Dr. Manning was working towards her doctoral degree, and Dr. Watson was her doctoral chair. Financial support for this research was provided by Brigham Young University, the Ella Carpenter Jensen Fellowship, the Women's Research Institute of Brigham Young University and The Heritage Foundation.

Notes

∗4 women cited two professions, i.e., Homemaker/Teacher, making the total percentage 122.79% versus 100%

¹The theory of support is outlined in Manning (2006).

²The specific supports are addressed thoroughly in Manning (2006).