Individual healing from infidelity and breakup for emerging adults

A Grounded Theory

Bibliographic Data

ID2921913
AuthorsStephen T Fife (0000-0003-1376-8863, Texas Tech University, corresponding author), Alex C Theobald (0000-0002-3628-5779, Texas Tech University), Jacob D Gossner (0000-0003-3474-0341, Texas Tech University), Britney N Yakum (0000-0002-4177-4542, Texas Tech University), Kelsey L White (Texas Tech University)
Year2022
Volume39
Issue6
Pages1814-1838
Publication date2022-06-01
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Social and Personal Relationships (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0265-4075 • E-ISSN: 1460-3608
PublisherSAGE Publications Inc (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1177/02654075211067441
OpenAlexW4210537572
LanguageEN
Citations received3
References cited32

Objective: Infidelity is a relationship betrayal that can lead to significant negative individual and relational outcomes. When infidelity leads to relationship dissolution, this can further exacerbate these challenges. The purpose of the present study is to develop a grounded theory of the process of healing from infidelity and consequent relationship dissolution for non-straying partners who are emerging adults. Methods: We employed constructivist grounded theory ( Charmaz, 2014 ) to conduct and analyze semi-structured interviews with 22 emerging adults who had experienced infidelity in a dating relationship and were no longer with their former partner. Results: We present a grounded theory of the process of healing from infidelity and breakup for emerging adults consisting of four stages and three interrelated dimensions-emotional, relational, and personal-within a healing context of supportive relationships. Unhelpful contact with the former partner constituted a significant setback to healing. Conclusion: This study builds on previous research about healing from infidelity ( O'Connor & Canevello, 2019 ) and relationship breakup ( Hebert & Popadiuk, 2008 ) for emerging adults and highlights the importance of supportive relationships and attending to emotional, relational, and personal dimensions of healing. Our findings also suggest that clinical assessment and intervention should address these aspects of healing and be informed by elapsed time since infidelity and relationship dissolution

Attachment theory · Betrayal · Context (archaeology · Developmental psychology · Grounded theory · Psychotherapist · Qualitative research · Sociology · Attachment and Relationship Dynamics · Body Image and Dysmorphia Studies · Evolutionary Psychology and Human Behavior · Psychology · Social Psychology

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