Psychology In Seattle Podcast Infidelity In Therapy (2016 Rerun)
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Oct 9, 2025 Explore the intricate dynamics of infidelity in therapy. Discover modern definitions that include cyber relationships and how secrets erode trust. Delve into the impact of cultural attitudes on disclosure and the ethical challenges therapists face. Learn about restoring intimacy through techniques like 'funerals for affairs' and the importance of timing in forgiveness. Unpack the psychological motivations behind cheating and discuss the effects of substance use on impulse control. It's a thought-provoking dive into a sensitive topic.
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Spot Emotional Infidelity Signs
- Ask whether interactions with an ex include the current partner in conversation; if not, treat it as potential emotional infidelity.
- Clarify relational boundaries early to prevent ambiguous contact from escalating.
Acknowledge Sex's Positive Value
- Therapists and presenters too rarely acknowledge the pleasure and meaning sex gives people, which skews approaches to problems.
- Recognizing pleasure can reduce shame and lead to more balanced treatment.
Pressure Honesty, Don't Collude With Denial
- When an individual reveals an affair, explore motives and values but set clear expectations about honesty and consequences.
- Press for concrete plans to end the affair or disclose it, rather than endless exploration that enables denial.
