In the early 2010s, research began to shift the treatment and support of betrayed partners away from co-addict and codependency models toward trauma-informed approaches that recognize PTSD-like symptoms. While this shift has increased validation of the betrayed partner’s experience and attention to their trauma, gaps remain in understanding the social, emotional, and physical impacts of their grief and loss.
The purpose of this survey is to explore the grief and loss experienced by betrayed partners, including emotional, physical, and social impacts, along with deficits in support.
The results of this study may contribute to doctoral research and the development of resources to better support betrayed partners.
Eligibility:
You may participate if you are:
18 years of age or older
Have experienced betrayal by a romantic partner (infidelity, deception, or similar)
Are able to read and respond in English
Procedures:
If you agree to participate, you will complete an online survey that includes scaled and open-ended questions about your experiences of grief, loss, and impacts following partner betrayal. The survey will take approximately 20-30 minutes to complete.
Voluntary Participation:
Your participation is completely voluntary. You may skip any question or stop the survey at any time without any penalty. You may withdraw your responses at any point before submitting the survey.
Risks and Discomforts:
Some questions may involve recalling distressing or emotional experiences, which could cause temporary emotional discomfort. You are encouraged to take breaks or stop if you feel overwhelmed and reach out for support. Support resources include:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
Your personal therapist or healthcare provider
Benefits:
There may be no direct personal benefit from participating. However, your responses will help researchers better understand grief experiences after partner betrayal and may inform interventions or resources to support others in similar situations.
Confidentiality:
All responses are confidential. Your data will be stored securely on password-protected computers or secure servers. No identifying information (e.g., name, email, IP address) will be linked to your responses in any reports, presentations, or publications. Only the research team will have access to the data.
Compensation:
There is no compensation for participation.
Contact Information:
For questions about the study, your rights as a participant, or concerns about research-related risks, contact MaryAnn Michaelis at maryann@hartrecoveryinstitute.com.
Consent:
By clicking “Next” or completing this survey, you indicate that:
You have read this information and understand the purpose, procedures, risks, and benefits of this study.
You voluntarily agree to participate.
You meet the eligibility requirements listed above.