Disclosure of Fidelity Secrets in a Therapeutic Setting

This paper explores the ethical obligations of a therapist as it relates to the disclosure of an infidelity secret within the therapeutic setting. The ethical obligations of a therapist involving confidentiality and equal advocacy complicate the decision surrounding disclosure of infidelity secrets to the offended partner. The literature investigates the consequences to the pair bond relationship, individual partners, and therapeutic relationship in the event of both disclosure and nondisclosure to the offended partner. The paper identifies a recommended solution for therapists in this situation based on the presented findings in the reviewed literature. One of the more common reasons couples enter marriage and family therapy is infidelity by one partner. According to Butler, Harper, and Seedall (2009), infidelity is seen by many therapists to be the second most destructive event to a marriage behind violence. Although it may be assumed that both partners are aware of the infidelity at the time therapy is initiated, literature has shown the presence of an infidelity secret within a relationship is prevalent (Butler et al., 2010). Occasionally, the disclosure of infidelity by the offending partner to the offended partner is presented in the midst of the therapeutic journey. In some instances, however, the offending partner discloses an infidelity secret to the therapist with an attached request for confidentiality. This circumstance creates a significant ethical dilemma for the therapist. The Role of the Therapist in