Researchers from the University of Haifa have published a study in the Journal of Family Psychology, shedding light on the Impact of narcissism on infidelity in committed relationships.
The research indicates that both grandiose and vulnerable narcissism can have varying effects on individuals’ and their partners’ perspectives on infidelity within couples.
The study explored the long-time interest in understanding how narcissism impacts aspects of human sexuality within the context of enduring romantic relationships.
It involved 135 heterosexual married couples from Israel, all in stable relationships lasting at least three years with children.
Read more here: How To Identify A Narcissist: 9 Common Traits of Narcissism
Exploring The Impact Of Narcissism On Infidelity In Committed Relationships
To measure the impact of narcissism on infidelity, participants completed an anonymous online survey assessing their levels of grandiose and vulnerable narcissism and their attitudes toward infidelity, using the “Attitudes Toward Infidelity Scale” (ATIS) and the “Brief-Pathological Narcissism Inventory.”
Key findings revealed that men, on average, reported more favorable attitudes toward infidelity than women, supporting previous research suggesting men may be more accepting of infidelity in relationships.
Among female participants, their own grandiose and vulnerable narcissism was linked to more positive views on infidelity within couples.
Additionally, women displayed less favorable attitudes when their partners exhibited higher levels of grandiose narcissism.
In contrast, for men, their own and their partner’s vulnerable narcissism correlated with more favorable attitudes towards infidelity, revealing distinct gender differences in how narcissism influences perceptions of infidelity within romantic relationships.
Lead author Ateret Gewirtz-Meydan stressed the significance of taking into account various facets of narcissism while studying attitudes towards infidelity in romantic couples.
Read more here: 7 Signs Your Narcissist Is Cheating
The study suggests that attitudes toward infidelity can be influenced not only by an individual’s own narcissistic traits but also by their partner’s narcissistic traits.
While the study offers valuable insights into the impact of narcissism on infidelity, it does come with some limitations.
Notably, it did not assess actual infidelity among the couples but instead focused on their attitudes towards it.
Future studies should aim to examine both actual infidelity and attitudes to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the interplay between narcissism and infidelity in romantic relationships.
Moreover, the cultural context of Israel, a conservative country valuing strong family and marital relationships, may have influenced the participants’ perceptions of infidelity.
Researchers pointed out that cultural norms and attitudes toward relationships and infidelity may impact the results.
As the concept of infidelity continues to evolve in today’s media-driven world, it is essential to acknowledge the varying definitions and forms of breaches of intimacy, such as cybersex, pornography, and emotional connections online.
Researchers recommended adopting a nuanced approach in future studies to investigate the diversity of perceptions regarding infidelity among individuals and how these varying definitions may impact the dynamics of relationships.
In conclusion, this research provides valuable insights into the impact of narcissism on infidelity in romantic couples.
Read more here: How To Emotionally Detach From A Narcissist? 8 Steps To Protect Your Emotional Well-Being from Narcissists
Understanding how both grandiose and vulnerable narcissism plays different roles in shaping attitudes toward infidelity can contribute to more informed discussions and interventions concerning relationship dynamics.
However, it’s essential to remember that not all narcissists will cheat, and infidelity is influenced by various factors beyond narcissistic traits.
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