Dealing with couple infidelity in romantic relationships: A group intervention feasibility study

Abstract

The extent to which group therapy benefits individuals who have experienced couple infidelity remains unexamined. In this study, a brief group intervention for individuals who experienced couple infidelity was designed, and the feasibility of the intervention was evaluated (i.e., acceptability; implementation; measurements’ performance and, limited‐efficacy testing). The final sample was composed of 20 women and 4 men (M = 29.95 years, SD = 12.3). Twenty‐four completed pre and post assessments and 20 of these completed the follow‐up assessment. At pre, post, and follow‐up, participants responded to a questionnaire packet that included measures of depression, anxiety and PTSD symptoms, relationship self‐efficacy, centrality of event, cognitive fusion, and decision to forgive. Also, follow‐up interviews were conducted. The closed group intervention consisted of eight 90‐min weekly sessions. The group therapy process component was based on solution‐focused therapy. Psychoeducation component included mindfulness, reflection on personal values, factors that contribute to infidelity, and forgiveness. Session rating scores indicated an overall high acceptance of the intervention, its contents, and goals. Interview reports showed that dealing with thoughts and emotions, understanding infidelity, and forgiveness were the most helpful contents. Group support and processes were also positively valued. Repeated‐measures MANOVA results indicated statistically significant decrease in symptoms, cognitive fusion, and importance of the event, as well as an increase in self‐efficacy. Measurement instruments showed adequate reliability. These results indicate that a group treatment may be an alternative format to help individuals deal with psychological consequences of couple infidelity, when couple therapy is not possible.