The Mediating Role of Mentalization Capacity in The Relationship Between Family Unpredictability and The Infidelity Tendency

Abstract

The primary aim of this study is to investigate the mediating role of mentalization capacity in the relationship between family unpredictability and the tendency toward infidelity (extradyadic involvement). Family unpredictability refers to the inconsistencies in family behaviors and regulatory systems, while infidelity, within the context of a romantic relationship, refers to a partner's violation of norms regulating emotional or physical intimacy with others outside the relationship. Mentalization is the ability to understand the conscious or unconscious states of mind of oneself and others. The study's participants consisted of 441 middle-aged adults involved in romantic relationships, including dating, engaged, or married. The Retrospective Family Unpredictability Scale, The Mentalization Scale, The Infidelity Tendency Scale, and the Socio-demographic Data Form were used in this study. Structural Equation Modelling was employed to test the proposed model. Findings indicated that family unpredictability significantly predicted both the tendency toward infidelity (extradyadic involvement) and mentalization capacity in middle-aged adults involved in romantic relationships. Mentalization capacity, in turn, was identified as a partial mediator in the relationship between family unpredictability and the tendency toward infidelity. These findings suggest that individuals who experience inconsistencies in family behaviors and regulatory systems may be more prone to infidelity, potentially due to compromised mentalization capacity. The findings obtained in this study highlight the significance of stable family environments and the development of mentalization skills in the risk of infidelity in romantic relationships.

Keywords

• Family unpredictability
• infidelity tendency
• mentalization

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