Study: Relational Recovery After Infidelity as a Dual Process: A Model Based on the Experiences of Female Injured Partners

Authors: Geertje Walravens, Peter Rober

Source: https://doi.org/10.1111/famp.12857

Full text on request: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/367363105_Relational_recovery_after_infidelity_as_a_dual_process_A_model_based_on_the_experiences_of_female_injured_partners

What Is Practically Relevant About This Study?

This study examines how female partners affected by infidelity experience the process of relational recovery. Unlike traditional models that describe the healing process as a linear progression, this study proposes a dual process model. This model describes recovery as a dynamic movement between two poles: connection and separation. This insight is particularly valuable for couple therapists, as it shows that recovery from infidelity is not just a continuous progression toward reconciliation, but rather an oscillating process where partners fluctuate between moments of closeness and distance.

A practical application of these findings in therapy could involve encouraging clients to express their emotions openly, even when these emotions seem contradictory. Therapists could support couples in navigating phases of intense emotional distance without viewing these as setbacks, but rather as part of a natural healing process. Additionally, recognizing that the pursuit of immediate reconciliation can be counterproductive may help reduce pressure on the partners and promote a more authentic and sustainable recovery.

Methodology of the Study

The study is based on a qualitative research strategy, in which 25 women who identified as “injured partners” following their partner’s infidelity were interviewed. Participants were recruited through advertisements in three major Flemish newspapers. The interviews were semi-structured and conducted in the participants’ homes. The time elapsed between the discovery of infidelity and the interview was at least two years. The data were analyzed through thematic analysis, identifying four main themes: communication, truth, trust, and ethical balance. Additionally, a narrative analysis was conducted to understand how participants narrated their recovery stories, with particular attention to the metaphors used and the structure of their narratives.

Limitations

One of the main limitations of the study is the homogeneous sample, consisting exclusively of female participants whose partners were unfaithful. This gender distribution may limit the generalizability of the findings to male or non-heterosexual partners. Additionally, the study is based on retrospective reports, which may be influenced by memory biases.

Peer-Review

This study was published in the “Family Process” journal, a peer-reviewed journal.

Disclosure

This text was generated with the help of ChatGPT and was editorially reviewed and edited. The study contents were not used as training material, and the analysis was conducted in compliance with current best practices regarding copyright.