Affair

A marital affair is typically defined as sexual intercourse between a spouse and a non-marital partner. The text suggests that this definition, while usually correct, is not broad enough to include all aspects of all affairs. The text instead defines an affair as a serious breach of trust that results in intense feelings of betrayal. For example, an affair thus may encompass intimate behavior not involving sexual intercourse.

Hurt Partner

The text uses the term 'hurt partner' to describe the person in the primary relationship whose assumption of monogamy has been violated. The label selected is specifically intended to remove the emotionally charged feelings surrounding other more-common labels such as victim or betrayed.

Unfaithful Partner

The text uses the term 'unfaithful partner' to describe the person in the primary relationship who has engaged in an extramarital affair. The label selected is specifically intended to remove the emotionally...