Abstract
This systematic review examines literature related to the phenomenon of infidelity in relation to military couples, particularly regarding the risk factors, protective factors, and relational outcomes of infidelity in relation to the military lifestyle. Aspects of this lifestyle, including deployment, relocation, combat exposure, and the plethora of mental health issues subsequent to these experiences, are common instigators of adverse relational events like infidelity, which itself is a catalyst for further relational injury. Furthermore, treatments available for military couples, which have been adapted from various therapy modalities used with civilian couples, are also summarized in this review to consolidate and discuss the resources needed by military couples and their advocates, including chaplains, mental health providers, and military family support programs, to address the consequences of extramarital behavior. The search was limited to peer-reviewed studies to gather information related to research questions to sustain an empirically supported systematic review. Inclusion and exclusion criteria ensured that the studies answered at least one of the key research questions. The data collected and extracted from each study are summarized and presented to determine clinical implications and recommendations for future research.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Adultery; United States. Army; United States. Marine Corps; United States. Air Force; United States. Navy
Date of Award
2024
School Affiliation
Graduate School of Education and Psychology
Department/Program
Psychology
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctorate
Faculty Advisor
Kathleen Eldridge
Recommended Citation
Ayson, Maria Allyson, "Systematic review of the risks, consequences, protective factors, and treatment of infidelity for military couples" (2024). Theses and Dissertations. 1490.
https://digitalcommons.pepperdine.edu/etd/1490