Sex differences in feelings of guilt arising from infidelity

Original article:

Sex differences in feelings of guilt arising from infidelity

Evolutionary Psychology 6(3): 436-446 Maryanne Fisher, Department of Psychology, St. Mary’s University, Halifax, Canada, mlfisher@smu.caMartin Voracek, Department of Basic Psychological Research, University of Vienna, Vienna, AustriaP. Vivien Rekkas, Department of Psychology, University of Toronto (Scarborough), Toronto, CanadaAnthony Cox, Centre for Psychology and Computing, Halifax, Canada

Abstract

Although there is extensive literature regarding sex differences in jealousy due to infidelity, guilt resulting from infidelity remains unexplored. We hypothesize that men will feel guiltier from imagined emotional rather than sexual infidelity, as it is most important for their partner’s reproductive success. Similarly, we predict that women will feel more guilt from imagined sexual rather than emotional infidelity. The findings indicate a different pattern; men feel guiltier following sexual infidelity, whereas women feel guiltier following emotional infidelity. Results also show that both sexes believe their partners would have a more difficult time forgiving sexual, rather than emotional, infidelity, but women and not men report that sexual infidelity would more likely lead to relationship dissolution. These findings are discussed in view of evolved mating strategies and individual reproductive success.

Keywords

infidelity, sex differences, guilt, mate selection.

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