SciELO - Scientific Electronic Library Online

 
vol.21 issue1Socialization, gender and family: an integrative review of scientific literature author indexsubject indexarticles search
Home Pagealphabetic serial listing  

Pensando familias

Print version ISSN 1679-494X

Abstract

SATTLER, Marli Kath; TAVARES, Ana Cristina Costa Nicola  and  SILVA, Isabela Machado da. Infidelity in romantic relationships: opportunities in couples’ clinical work. Pensando fam. [online]. 2017, vol.21, n.1, pp. 162-175. ISSN 1679-494X.

Although its meaning may differ according to specific socio-cultural contexts and to the established contract, infidelity always causes stress on couples’ relationships and is very challenging to deal with. This article addresses possibilities of intervention when dealing with couples who seek therapy due to infidelity. It must be considered as a complex phenomenon, associated to intrapsychic, relational, situational and socio-cultural issues. Therapists must address: (a) the initial impact of the of infidelity revelation; (b) the history of the relationship, in order to contextualize what happened; and (c) what can be expected for the relationship’s future. In this process, both individual and couples sessions are useful. Understanding infidelity requires a systemic approach, which should consider the history of the couple and of their family; their beliefs and their relational patterns. Therapists should be able to create an environment of mutual understanding thus contributing to the changes desired by the spouses.

Keywords : Marital relations; Marriage counseling; Infidelity; Adultery.

        · abstract in Portuguese     · text in Portuguese     · Portuguese ( pdf )

 

Creative Commons License