Love and Infidelity: Causes and Consequences

Abstract

This is a narrative review addressing the topic of romantic infidelity, its causes and its consequences. Love is commonly a source of much pleasure and fulfillment. However, as this review points out, it can also cause stress, heartache and may even be traumatic in some circumstances. Infidelity, which is relatively common in Western culture, can damage a loving, romantic relationship to the point of its demise. However, by highlighting this phenomenon, its causes and its consequences, we hope to provide useful insight for both researchers and clinicians who may be assisting couples facing these issues. We begin by defining infidelity and illustrating the various ways in which one may become unfaithful to their partner. We explore the personal and relational factors that enhance an individual’s tendency to betray their partner, the various reactions related to a discovered affair and the challenges related to the nosological categorization of infidelity-based trauma, and conclude by reviewing the effects of COVID-19 on unfaithful behavior, as well as clinical implications related to infidelity-based treatment. Ultimately, we hope to provide a road map, for academicians and clinicians alike, of what some couples may experience in their relationships and how can they be helped.

A case report of infanticide in rural Nepal: Sociocultural perspectives and forensic considerations

“…Infidelity and pregnancy are related, but not all cases of infidelity result in pregnancy. The passion of an affair can make birth control less effective, and when it results in pregnancy, it can cause lasting damage to both partners 8 . The causes of infidelity are complex and varied, with most affairs arising from relational dissatisfaction and personal dissatisfaction 8 .…”

“…The passion of an affair can make birth control less effective, and when it results in pregnancy, it can cause lasting damage to both partners 8 . The causes of infidelity are complex and varied, with most affairs arising from relational dissatisfaction and personal dissatisfaction 8 . Addressing the underlying issues that lead to infidelity is crucial to prevent future infidelity.…”

“… 8 The causes of infidelity are complex and varied, with most affairs arising from relational dissatisfaction and personal dissatisfaction. 8 Addressing the underlying issues that lead to infidelity is crucial to prevent future infidelity.…”

Coping behaviour of women in the situation when their partner cheated

“…Infidelity is a frequent but serious challenge in romantic relationships. It is estimated that infidelity occurs in 20-25% of marriages (Rokach & Chan, 2023). Despite being a fairly common occurrence, infidelity is one of the most damaging relationship disruptions, with the rejected partner (i.e.…”

Mediating Role of Infidelity-related Posttraumatic Symptoms in the Relationship Between Forgiveness and Psychological Health Concerns

“…There are many factors that can contribute to the breakdown of a relationship, including communication problems (Gottman & Levenson, 2002), differing values and goals (Lavner et al, 2014), and conflicts over finances (Archuleta, 2013). While these issues can all be difficult to navigate, infidelity is often the most common concern that may instigate breakup (Grøntvedt et al, 2020), may affect negatively the partner's overall emotional well-being (Bozoyan & Schmiedeberg, 2022), and may even be traumatic in some circumstances (Rokach & Chan, 2023).…”