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ERIC Number: EJ981541
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2012-Nov
Pages: 26
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0192-513X
EISSN: N/A
What Helps Couples Rebuild Their Relationship after Infidelity?
Abrahamson, Iona; Hussain, Rafat; Khan, Adeel; Schofield, Margot J.
Journal of Family Issues, v33 n11 p1494-1519 Nov 2012
Despite infidelity being a highly traumatic experience, not all couples end their relationship after discovery of the affair. The present study provides insights into the experience of couples who remained together after having experienced infidelity by one partner. Narrative inquiry methods were used to undertake and analyze in-depth interviews with eligible participants from eastern Australia who responded to advertisements. The key themes acknowledged by participants as reasons for maintaining the relationship were motivation to stay together, treasuring acts of kindness, meaning making, and social support. However, the reconciliation process was tortuous and involved forgiveness, seeking counseling, managing memories, vicarious learning, and changing couple dynamics. In rebuilding the relationship, a modification often took place, resulting in a shift in the power dynamic. The article outlines professional considerations for counselors and other therapists in relation to professional practice. (Contains 1 table.)
SAGE Publications. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2814
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Australia
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A