Preventing Infidelity: A Theory of Protective Factors

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify a theory that explains how married persons maintain monogamy. Ten participants were interviewed twice using a semistructured interview format. Grounded theory methods of data collection and analysis were used. Member-checking, bracketing, peer-review, analytic memos, and external auditing were used throughout the study for verification purposes. The data supported the finding that monogamy is maintained by small, continual, and consistent efforts in each protective factor area. The protective factors include (a) building a secure attachment or emotional bond; (b) sex in a marriage; (c) behavioral, cognitive, and relationship boundaries; (d) practicing congruence; (e) fostering values and beliefs that support monogamy; and (f) coping individually and as a couple.