Preventing Infidelity: A Theory of Protective Factors

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify a theory that explains how married persons maintain monogamy. Ten participants were interviewed twice using a semistructured interview format. Grounded theory methods of data collection and analysis were used. Member-checking, bracketing, peer-review, analytic memos, and external auditing were used throughout the study for verification purposes. The data supported the finding that monogamy is maintained by small, continual, and consistent efforts in each protective factor area. The protective factors include (a) building a secure attachment or emotional bond; (b) sex in a marriage; (c) behavioral, cognitive, and relationship boundaries; (d) practicing congruence; (e) fostering values and beliefs that support monogamy; and (f) coping individually and as a couple.

A Training Case of the Theory of Protective Factors of Monogamy

“…For an effective application, a review of the theory is presented. Readers are encouraged to review the works of Fye (2018) and Fye and Mims (2019) to gain a detailed understanding of the data, methods, and results of the study, which serves as the foundation for this article. The purpose of this article is couples/marriage counselor training application and pedagogy.…”

“…The protective factors include (a) building a secure attachment or emotional bond; (b) sex in a marriage; (c) behavioral, cognitive, and relationship boundaries; (d) practicing congruence; (e) fostering values and beliefs which support monogamy; and (f) coping individually and as a couple. This theory contains a reciprocal relationship between all of the factors/themes and includes multiple subthemes and codes (Fye, 2018; Fye & Mims, 2019). Yet the application of this theory to practice is still needed.…”

“…When monogamy is violated, couples and the relationship can experience trauma and a multitude of distressing symptoms (Atkins et al, 2005; Cano & O’Leary, 2000; Gorman & Blow, 2008; Nemeth et al, 2012; Rosenbaum & Bennett, 1986; Shrout & Weigel, 2018). Yet it can be prevented by helping couples maintain monogamy rather than focusing on treatment after the fact (Fye & Mims, 2019; Marin, Christensen, & Atkins, 2014). Understanding and expanding on how monogamy is maintained can be a crucial part of a practitioner’s work.…”

“…Even though there are some premarital counseling programs, there are few preventative approaches strictly dedicated to helping couples maintain monogamy (Tambling & Glebova, 2013). A theory of protective factors of monogamy was exposed and presented (Fye, 2018; Fye & Mims, 2019). Yet Fye and Mims (2019) did not richly demonstrate how counselor educators and supervisors (CES) may use the theory to supplement their curricula.…”

“…A theory of protective factors of monogamy was exposed and presented (Fye, 2018; Fye & Mims, 2019). Yet Fye and Mims (2019) did not richly demonstrate how counselor educators and supervisors (CES) may use the theory to supplement their curricula. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to exemplify how CES can infuse the theory and protective factors through experiential pedagogy to advance students’ knowledge, skills, and abilities through application, preparation, and reflection pedagogy (Heaton & Black, 2009; Magnuson & Norem, 2002; Young & Hundley, 2013).…”