Ain’t misbehavin? Monogamy maintenance strategies in heterosexual romantic relationships

Monogamy is a near universal expectation in intimate relationships in Western societies and is typically defined as sexual and romantic exclusivity to one partner. This research informs the paradox between monogamy intentions and high rates of infidelity. Monogamy maintenance (MM) strategies used in response to relationship threats posed by attraction to extradyadic others were identified and characterized. Across three samples, 741U.S. adults in intimate relationships completed surveys addressing MM. Twenty-four strategies emerged in three factorsProactive Avoidance (of attractive alternatives), Relationship Enhancement, and Low Self-Monitoring and Derogation (in the face of extradyadic attraction). All MM factors were commonly endorsed, yet were largely unsuccessful at forestalling infidelity.