Date

4-29-2026

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Education in Community Care and Counseling (EdD)

Chair

Anne Hubach

Keywords

Internet infidelity, married couples, cultural values, emotional infidelity, faith-based marriage

Disciplines

Counseling

Abstract

This phenomenological study explored the lived experience of Christian, English-speaking Hispanic individuals who have experienced internet-based emotional infidelity. The increasing use of digital communication has contributed to new forms of relational challenges within marriages, particularly in a faith-based context. Data was collected through semi-structured, in-depth interviews and a focus group, with participants purposively recruited via personal outreach and referrals. The analysis focused on understanding how individuals perceived, interpreted, and coped with emotional infidelity within their relationships. Findings revealed that participants experienced emotional distress, disruptions in trust, and challenges in communication, while also relying on personal, relational, and faith-based coping strategies. These findings contributed to a deeper understanding of emotional infidelity within Hispanic Christian marriages and may inform counseling practices and faith-based interventions.

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