Revisiting the charmed circle: A reflexive examination of unanswered questions in the infidelity literature

Abstract

Infidelity is a common experience in romantic relationships, and as such, relationships researchers have amassed a large infidelity literature. In the current manuscript, we provide a brief overview of the infidelity literature, specifically focusing on how infidelity is defined, infidelity attitudes, predictors of infidelity, and infidelity outcomes. Next, we introduce readers to the “Charmed Circle,” a theoretical perspective that conceptualizes monogamous sex as part of society's view of “good, normal, and natural” sex, otherwise known as mononormativity. As scholars, we are equally socialized in a system that endorses and reinforces mononormativity. In this article, we call on scholars to engage in reflexivity and consider how mononormativity has shaped the infidelity literature and their approach to research. We highlight pressing questions within the infidelity literature and argue that by questioning our own biases, assumptions, and methodologies, we will be able to further advance our understanding of infidelity.