Cultural Differences and Similarities in Correlates of Infidelity

AbstractInfidelity is negatively judged all over the world, but there are substantial cultural differences in this respect. Moreover some variables seem globally consistently associated with the occurrence of infidelity. The current chapter examines cross-cultural differences about what infidelity means and the social and psychological correlates associated with infidelity, including intrapersonal, relational, and ideological factors. Of the intrapersonal factors that predict infidelity, it explores especially the roles of gender, religiosity, education, income, mental health, and personality. Moreover, of the interpersonal factors related to infidelity, it focuses on factors like commitment, satisfaction, and dependency. Finally, it analyzes some ideological factors, such as religiosity and attitudes toward extramarital sex that are associated with engaging in infidelity.