Perceptions of Married Adults Regarding Extramarital Affairs in Lahore, Pakistan

Abstract

Aim of the Study: An extramarital affair is related to a kind of sex problem and has been identified as one of the major problems in marital relationship. The current study aim is to explore the perceptions of married adults regarding extramarital affairs and social factors that contributed to develop these perceptions about extramarital affairs.

Methodology: Purposive sampling technique was used and researchers conducted twenty in-depth interviews from married adults (ten=females, ten=males) using semi-structured interview guide. The thematic analysis used to qualitatively analyze the data. Five key themes were identified: (cyber/emotional/sexual) Conflicts (marital/family), Media (social/electronic) Lack of values (Islamic/moral) and Impacts (psychological/ environmental/work).

Findings: Under the theme of marital conflicts the key subthemes are sexual incompatibility, not giving time and attention, childlessness and not maintaining his/her self, findings revealed that males indulge in extramarital affairs when they are not sexually satisfied with their spouse and also when their spouse no longer attractive. Electronic media play negative role as by negative aspects of marriage.

Conclusion: Study concluded that social media give easily approach to access the other person and started compromising the Islamic and moral value and adopted western culture. It impact on the children’s development as well as the mental health of both partners. Counsellor need to educate youths on family, sex and marital counselling so as to get their minds prepared on the functions they are expected to perform when they get into marriage and how marriage could be sustained and satisfied.