In both research and the Bible, adultery is often seen as a harmful act that can have serious consequences. Research suggests that adultery can lead to emotional distress, the breakdown of relationships, and even physical harm. A study published in the journal Sexual and Relationship Therapy found that individuals who reported emotional distress after their partner had been unfaithful were more likely to experience negative health outcomes, including depression and anxiety. Additionally, research shows that adultery can be a major cause of divorce, with some estimates suggesting that infidelity is responsible for up to one-third of divorces in the United States.
The Bible also speaks out against adultery, with the Ten Commandments explicitly prohibiting the act. In addition, several passages in the Bible warn against the dangers of adultery, such as Proverbs 6:32-33, which states, “But he who commits adultery lacks sense; he who does it destroys himself. He will get wounds and dishonor, and his disgrace will not be wiped away.” Similarly, in Matthew 5:27-28, Jesus warns against even thinking lustful thoughts, saying, “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”
Overall, research and the Bible seem to agree that adultery is a harmful act that can have serious consequences for individuals and relationships. While research may focus on the psychological and physical effects of infidelity, the Bible offers a moral and spiritual perspective on the issue. Nonetheless, both perspectives suggest that adultery is ultimately detrimental to individuals and society as a whole.
Sources:
– Mark, K. P., Janssen, E., & Milhausen, R. R. (2011). Infidelity in heterosexual couples: demographic, interpersonal, and personality-related predictors of extradyadic sex. Archives of sexual behavior, 40(5), 971-982. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10508-011-9761-z
– Markham, S. (2013). “Sex is nothing, but emotional betrayal is a killer”: Romantic jealousy and the ethics of infidelity. Sexual and Relationship Therapy, 28(2), 123-134. https://doi.org/10.1080/14681994.2012.751945
– The Holy Bible, English Standard Version (ESV). (2001). Wheaton, IL: Crossway.
