But why? A Multitheoretical Study of the Predictors of Infidelity

Abstract

This study intended to contribute to the advancement of knowledge on marital infidelity, through the identification of its main predictors, from multiple theoretical perspectives and comparing their predictive capacity. Variables were measured by self-report, in a sample of 545 individuals from the community, responding over the Internet. One year later, 53 participants provided further data, to allow for the evaluation of behavior continuity. Two predictors were found to predominate: (a) low quality and investment in the primary relationship and (b) the use of a short-term reproductive strategy. The first predictor was more salient among females and for affective involvement, the second among males and for sexual involvement. Other significant predictors were found in specific contexts, showing that, although some theories tend to be confounded in their predictive capacity, none of them singly allows for a sufficient comprehension of the phenomenon of extra-relational involvement.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.17575/rpsicol.v29i2.1002