Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Counseling Department, Islamic Azad University, Shabestar Branch, Shabestar, Iran
2
PhD student in Counseling, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj Branch, Sanandaj, Iran
3
Psychology Department, Islamic Azad University, Mahabad Branch, Mahabad, Iran.
10.22098/jfrs.2025.16580.1228
Abstract
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 phenomenological method. The sample size consisted of 81 participants (12 women and 6 men) who were selected through non-random, purposive sampling. The research tool was a semi-structured interview. The data were coded and analyzed using thematic coding. 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. 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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