Structural Equation Modeling of the Role of Pornography Addiction in Predicting Marital Infidelity with the Mediation of Emotional Loneliness and Dysfunctional Sexual Fantasies

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Department of Educational Sciences and Counseling, Sayyed Jamaleddin Asadabadi University, Asadabad, Iran.

2 Head of the Counseling and Psychological Services Center, General Department of Education, Hamedan Province

10.22098/jfrs.2025.16950.1234

Abstract

Objective: Marital infidelity is one of the major challenges in couples' relationships, which can be influenced by pornography addiction. This study aimed to examine the role of pornography addiction in predicting marital infidelity, with the mediating role of emotional loneliness and dysfunctional sexual fantasies.

Methods: The methodology of this study was descriptive and correlational. The statistical population consisted of all men and women with experiences of marital infidelity, who sought counseling and psychological services from educational centers in Hamadan province. From this population, 320 individuals were selected as a sample using the available sampling method. The data collection tools included the Pornography Addiction Scale, Loneliness Scale, Sexual Fantasy Questionnaire, and Marital Infidelity Questionnaire.

Results: The model of pornography addiction's role in predicting marital infidelity, with the mediation of emotional loneliness and dysfunctional sexual fantasies, exhibited a satisfactory fit. A significant relationship was found between pornography addiction and marital infidelity. Emotional loneliness and dysfunctional sexual fantasies serve as mediators in the relationship between pornography addiction and marital infidelity.

Conclusion: Pornography addiction can severely impact marital relationships. Addressing its psychological effects, such as emotional loneliness and dysfunctional sexual fantasies, is crucial for effective prevention strategies and enhancing relationship quality among couples.

Keywords

Journal of Family Relations Studies

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 27 August 2025

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History

  • Receive Date: 09 March 2025
  • Revise Date: 04 July 2025
  • Accept Date: 29 July 2025

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