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Infidelity Decision-Making by Emerging Adult Women: A Grounded Theory.
Stephen T Fife1, Emily Janes2, Şura Sena Erbaş Yigit1
1Department of Community, Family, and Addiction Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas, USA.
Journal of Marital and Family Therapy
|April 3, 2026
Summary
This study reveals women's infidelity decisions are non-linear, driven by relationship issues, motivation, and rationalization. Understanding these interconnected factors is crucial for clinical practice.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Relationship Science
Background:
- Infidelity research often overlooks women's decision-making processes.
- Existing models may be linear and male-oriented, failing to capture female experiences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the decision-making process of infidelity among emerging adult women.
- To develop a nuanced understanding beyond linear models.
Main Methods:
- Constructivist grounded theory approach.
- In-depth, semi-structured interviews with 22 women in committed heterosexual relationships who had experienced infidelity.
Main Results:
- Women's infidelity decision-making is non-linear and dynamic.
- Three interconnected factors—unfulfilling relationship, motivation, and rationalizing—interact synchronously.
- This process is visualized as interlocking gears, emphasizing interdependence.
Conclusions:
- Expands understanding of infidelity decision-making beyond linear and male-centric perspectives.
- Highlights the importance of relational dynamics and individual psychological factors in clinical work with infidelity issues.
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