Approximately 53 percent of American marriages end in divorce. Infidelity is one of the leading causes of such divorces. The concept of infidelity usually hits the injured spouse so hard that he or she does not know what to do. The very trust that caused the two parties to bond breaks, and many people do not feel as if they can salvage their marriages after such a thing occurs. Infidelity is an acceptable legal reason for a divorce in most states. Infidelity is an acceptable religious reason for divorce in some sects, as well. The following contains some alternative strategies for dealing with infidelity:
Opening up Communication
Many affairs occur because of a lack of communication. One spouse may feel completely neglected, but he or she turns to another person instead of talking to the other spouse. One spouse may have resentment toward the other spouse for a different matter, but that person may stray instead of dealing with the angry feelings. A couple that wants to save their marriage will have to learn how to communicate. Many angry and hurt feelings will emerge, and they will both need to fully express those feelings. Putting up barriers and ignoring the white elephant in the room will destroy the relationship.
Seeking Marital Counseling
A marriage counselor can help a husband and wife to reconnect and find their way back to each other. Many therapists and counselors are willing to help, but both persons must be willing to try to save the marriage. The injured spouse may need time to deal with negative feelings before he or she will be willing to seek counseling. The offending spouse should respect the injured spouse and give that person time to decide how to proceed.
Trying a Legal Separation or Trial Separation
The injured spouse may want to spend some time apart. In such a case, it is best for the offending spouse to conform and give the injured spouse his or her time. The offending spouse can try to apologize and re-establish trust from afar. The two spouses may find that they miss each other too much to advance to divorce stage. Alternatively, they may find that they are both better people when they are not together. A separation will make or break a marriage, and a married couple should try it before filing for a full-fledged divorce.
Attending Church
A married couple that has a religious faith may want to seek guidance from a member of the church. Church leaders can give spiritual guidance and direction according to the scriptures. Spiritual healing can work wonders for a marriage because it teaches spouses to forgive each other and try to hold together the foundation of the relationship.
Infidelity is a heartbreaking experience, but marriage is something that should be held sacred. If there is any way the two parties could make it, then they should try.
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