Positive psychology offers approaches that go beyond reducing infidelity symptoms toward building the conditions for genuine flourishing.
PERMA and Infidelity
Martin Seligman's PERMA model identifies five elements of wellbeing relevant to infidelity:
- Positive emotions: Deliberately cultivating joy, gratitude, and pleasure alongside infidelity treatment
- Engagement: Flow states that create absorption and counter infidelity
- Relationships: Quality connections that buffer against infidelity
- Meaning: Purpose that persists despite infidelity
- Achievement: Progress toward goals, even while managing infidelity
Signature Strengths and Infidelity
Research shows that using your top character strengths in new ways is a robust infidelity intervention. The VIA Character Strengths survey identifies your strengths.
Integrating Positive Psychology with Infidelity Treatment
Positive psychology doesn't replace infidelity treatment — it complements it. Treating infidelity removes obstacles; positive psychology builds the structure of a fulfilling life.