Single- and dual-trauma couples: clinical observations of relational characteristics and dynamics.

Trauma survivors and their spouses/partners who seek therapy often present with unique dynamics owing to the ongoing effects of previous trauma. This article provides a clinical framework for understanding single-trauma (only 1 partner reports a trauma history) and dual-trauma (both partners report a trauma history) couples. The descriptions of single- and dual-trauma couples were developed through several focus group discussions.

Emotional processes following disclosure of an extramarital affair.

In-depth interviews with individuals who had experienced marital infidelity revealed a three-stage process following disclosure of an affair. The process starts with an "emotional roller coaster" and moves through a "moratorium" before efforts at trust building are recognized. Implications for the literature on forgiveness and the process of change in couples therapy are discussed as well as implications for future research and for practice.