Predicting Attitudes Towards Marital Infidelity Based on Marital Burnout and Loneliness

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: Marital infidelity is considered one of the most damaging challenges in intimate relationships and can lead to serious psychological, emotional, and family consequences. The present study aimed to predict attitudes toward marital infidelity based on marital burnout and loneliness among married women referring to counseling centers in Tonekabon.

Methodology: This applied study was conducted using a descriptive-correlational design. The statistical population included all married women referring to counseling centers in Tonekabon during 2026, from whom 120 participants were selected through convenience sampling. Research instruments included Mark Whatley’s Attitudes Toward Marital Infidelity Scale (2006), Pines’ Marital Burnout Scale (1996), and the short form of the Social and Emotional Loneliness Scale for Adults developed by DiTommaso et al. (2004). Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficients and multiple regression analysis in SPSS software.

Findings: The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between marital burnout and attitudes toward marital infidelity (r=0.305, p<0.01). Loneliness was also positively and significantly associated with attitudes toward marital infidelity (r=0.281, p<0.01). Regression analysis demonstrated that marital burnout significantly predicted attitudes toward marital infidelity (F=12.192, p=0.001), and the inclusion of loneliness increased the explained variance of the dependent variable (R²=0.126). Overall, higher levels of marital burnout and loneliness were associated with more positive attitudes toward marital infidelity.

Conclusion: The results indicate that marital burnout and loneliness are important psychological predictors of positive attitudes toward marital infidelity. Therefore, addressing these variables in counseling interventions, relationship enrichment programs, and preventive psychological services may contribute to strengthening marital relationships, improving emotional intimacy, and reducing tendencies toward marital infidelity.