GUIDING COMMUNICATION IN COUPLES POSTINFIDELITY

How does betrayal trauma from infidelity impact communication in couples and the family system? In a review of the literature on best practices for infidelity treatment, this presentation will offer marriage and family therapists and other mental health clinicians an opportunity to learn how to guide couples through communication after infidelity discovery. Participants without a clinical background will learn about the application of theory to infidelity treatment. Attachment styles shape the way individuals respond to and cope with infidelity and betrayal trauma. Participants will learn about the erosion of trust leading up to and after learning about infidelity, with considerations for the impact of culture on communication. Additionally, participants will learn about applying Emotionally Focused Therapy to infidelity treatment. After completing a case study exercise based on the information learned, participants will have an opportunity to provide comments, ask questions, and offer reflections on the material. (Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Rebecca Lucero-Jones) Supported by TWU Center for Student Research.