Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
PhD student , Department of Counseling, Sanandaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj, Iran
2
Department of Counseling and Psychology , Shabestar Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shabestar, Iran
3
Department of Psychology, Mahabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mahabad, Iran
Abstract
Objective: While the virtual space has positive functionalities, it can also have potentially harmful effects on families and couples. The present qualitative study aimed to explore the individual, interpersonal, and social factors that could help reduce marital infidelity in the virtual space, using a phenomenological method.
Methods: The statistical population of the study included couples with a history of virtual infidelity referred from the family court in Urmia city. The sample size consisted of 81 participants (12 women and 6 men) who were selected through non-random purposive sampling. The tool of the current research was a semi-structured interview that was conducted in the context of individual, interpersonal, and social factors influencing the prevention of marital infidelity in cyberspace.
Results: The data were coded and analyzed using thematic coding. After coding the interviews and categorizing the themes, a total of 7 individual indicators (differentiation, avoiding extremes in marital life, foresight, preventing a crisis in life, strengthening individual competencies, maintaining physical and mental health, and possessing family, ethical, and spiritual competencies), 3 interpersonal indicators (the ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and nonverbally, the presence of intimacy in life, and diminishing interpersonal conflicts), and 4 social indicators (the nature of one’s job and economic status, the presence of stringent laws, promoting a healthy lifestyle, and the existence of diverse healthy and joyful programs in society) were identified.
Conclusion: The results indicate that if couples possess the necessary individual and interpersonal skills and society provides the required actions and facilities, the likelihood of virtual infidelity may significantly decrease.
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