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Treating infidelity: clinical and ethical directions
Douglas K Snyder1, Brian D Doss
1Department of Psychology, Texas A and M University, College Station, TX 77843-4235, USA. d-snyder@tamu.edu
Journal of Clinical Psychology
|September 15, 2005
Summary
This article guides therapists in ethically treating infidelity, emphasizing research, cultural awareness, and managing complex confidentiality issues in couple therapy. It highlights the need for clear value articulation in infidelity counseling.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Psychology
- Ethics in Therapy
- Relationship Counseling
Background:
- Infidelity is a common presenting issue in therapy.
- Therapists require specialized knowledge to address infidelity effectively.
- Ethical dilemmas, including confidentiality and conflicts of interest, are prevalent.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide clinical and ethical guidelines for therapists treating infidelity.
- To enhance therapist competence in infidelity counseling.
- To address complexities in assessment and intervention for infidelity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on infidelity research.
- Exploration of individual and cultural differences in non-monogamy.
- Discussion of ethical considerations in couple therapy.
Main Results:
- Competence requires understanding infidelity research and diverse relationship structures.
- Therapists must navigate dual responsibilities to individuals and the relationship.
- Confidentiality presents unique challenges with undisclosed infidelity and STDs/HIV.
Conclusions:
- Therapists need to develop specific skills for infidelity treatment.
- Ethical practice involves managing conflicts of interest and complex confidentiality.
- Articulating personal values is crucial for effective infidelity counseling.