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Abstract
In this study, the intimacy experiences of men were explored based on and after their experience of their wives engaging in infidelity. The men participated in a semi-structured interview process that provoked reflection and discussion on the topic of intimacy experiences after the occurrence and revelation of infidelity. Men were the chosen subject in an effort to expand the literature regarding the perspectives of men on emotionally driven topics, such as intimacy after infidelity and to increase the expressiveness of men on sensitive topics. The results demonstrated that, although there were minor differences depending on marital circumstances, the men possessed very similar opinions regarding the definition of marriage, intimacy, and infidelity. Based on the findings, the men illustrated similar reactions toward infidelity; trust before and after infidelity; forgiveness after infidelity; and intimacy before and after infidelity. These factors were highlighted as highly significant regarding how these men experienced intimacy after their wives engaged in infidelity. Furthermore, it was concluded that men are highly capable and willing to express their thoughts and feelings regarding emotionally provoking topics; however, they are more likely to do so, after the healing process of their experience. This study’s findings will be constructive to marriage and family therapists, premarital counselors and pastoral officers, and behavioral/social science educators as they seek to assist couples in therapy with issues of infidelity and teach students the dynamics associated with marital conflicts and conflict resolution. Marriage and family professionals will be able to examine the intimate perspectives and interpretations of men and how they view acts of infidelity in their marriage as it relates to their wives’ as the offender. With these observations, therapists can seek theoretical perspectives, techniques, and activities that promote emotional intimacy, physical intimacy, and spousal understanding within the marriage in an effort to prevent the occurrence of infidelity or to rebuild healthy marriages and families after the occurrence of infidelity.