Gender Differences and Relationship Status in Infidelity: Whos Chasing Whom?

Abstract

The present study examined when people will or will not engage in cheating behavior by pursuing an individual who is currently in a relationship. The purpose of the present study was to examine the impact of three variables on cheating behavior: relationship status of the target, relationship status of the individual, and gender of the individual. Participants included both single and committed individuals. All participants were shown a photograph of an attractive individual of the opposite gender and a description of the target, which indicated the relationship status of the target. After viewing the photograph and description, participants completed the Willingness to Pursue Questionnaire (WPQ). The ratings were averaged in order to create a composite score of one's willingness to pursue the target, with higher scores on this measure indicating a greater likelihood of pursuing the potential mate.