Explaining the model of structural relations of tendency to extramarital relations based on schema mentality; the mediating role of attachment style

 The purpose of this study was to explain the model of structural relationships of the tendency to extramarital relationships based on schema mentality; the mediating role of attachment style.

The design of the present study was descriptive-correlational. The statistical population of the study were all married men and women aged 20 to 50 years in Tehran in 2021 (history of marriage over two years). The research sampling method was purposeful available and the sample size was 229 people (206 females and 23 males). The research questionnaires were Bashirpour et al. extramarital relationships (1397), Young's Schematic Mindset Questionnaire (2001) and Collins and Reid Attachment Questionnaire (1990). Findings were analyzed using structural equation modeling.

The results showed that the structural model of the research fits with the collected data (P <0.01). It was also found that ambivalent and secure attachment styles positively and significantly mediate the relationship between schema mentality and tendency to extramarital relationships (P <0.01).

It can be concluded that schema mentalities and attachment styles can be useful for psychologists and counselors in determining interventions in the field of couple therapy and extramarital relationships.