Psycho-Social Reasons of Infidelity among Couples
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Date
2019
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UMT.lahore
Abstract
Infidelity is not a new phenomenon by any means and is defined as having one or more extramarital affairs. It can exist in different forms like, physical or sexual infidelity, emotional attachment and cyber infidelity. This social evil is contributing to instances of domestic violence, honor killing, suicide, desertion of marriage, poor mental and physical health, and traumatic effects on children. The present study explores this phenomenon qualitatively by looking at couples in Lahore. For the purpose of this research, five women and seven men were recruited as the study’s sample. The semi-structured interview guide gauged their perceptions about infidelity, as informed by their own experiences, and the study results shed light on this multifaceted practice. Interviewing both men and women has lent the study a gendered lens. It was found that there are multiple psycho-social factors that contribute to infidelity, such as good or bad financial condition, virulent nature of men, living apart for a long period of time, stressful environment at home, excessive use of internet and pornography. These factors vary according to gendered social experiences of men and women. It was also found that though both men and women cheat, it is more common and acceptable amongst men. The study’s recommendations are based on insights from participants and deal with debates about polygamy, banning porn, better communication, and couple counseling.