Treating couples recovering from infidelity: an integrative approach

J Clin Psychol. 2005 Nov;61(11):1393-405. doi: 10.1002/jclp.20189.

Abstract

Infidelity is one of the most difficult problems to address in couple therapy, most likely because it involves a traumatic relationship event that alters the ways in which couples process information about each other and established behavioral patterns. We present a three-stage treatment designed to address the cognitive, behavioral, and emotional sequelae of affairs that integrates cognitive-behavioral and insight-oriented strategies with the literatures on traumatic response and forgiveness. A case study with pretreatment, posttreatment, and 6-month follow-up data is presented to illustrate the treatment methods.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Adult
  • Couples Therapy / methods*
  • Extramarital Relations / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Marital Therapy / methods*
  • Spouses / psychology*