Most of the attention in dealing with affairs focuses on top signs that someone is cheating or a variation of that. The focus on catching and avoiding being caught seems to be the major amount of articles and websites on affair. Although that is where there is the highest amount of drama and excitement, it does little to help the couple actually deal with the affair and the needs of the spouses.
Since many of the ways we cope with crises come from our family of origin, the question arises as to “How should I deal with an affair?” Unless there was one in your family of origin or that of a close friend, you may not have the coping skills or knowledge needed to deal with an affair situation. Most parents spend more time focused on teaching their children how to drive a car than on how to deal with a major crisis like an affair. These are areas and situations that can be improved on.
How can parents teach their children to deal with affairs?
1. Through the values and beliefs promoted in the home.
2. Through the role modeling of how to deal with crises and conflicts in the home
3. Through the books and entertainment allowed in the home that provide stimulation and references in dealing with relationship issues.
4. Through the role modeling of what it means to be married, what it means to be a man or what it means to be a woman.
5. Through the family structure of how approachable or unapproachable parents and family members are.
These will provide you with some things to think about and work on in your life and the lives of your children.
Best Regards,
Jeffrey Murrah
