Responses to unprotected extradyadic sex by one's partner: Testing predictions from interdependence and equity theory

With a sample of 251 Dutch adults, many of whom had been involved in extradyadic sex, we examined three responses to unprotected extradyadic sex by the partner: angry retreat (anger, upset, and inclination to leave the partner), accommodation (open communication aimed at preserving the relationship), and assertiveness (demanding precautionary measures from the partner). Hypotheses were based upon interdependence theory and equity theory. A factor analysis confirmed the conceptual independence of the three responses. Women expressed more angry retreat and assertiveness but not more accommodation than men. Regression analyses showed that, controlling for various demographic variables, angry retreat was particularly found among individuals with a low intention to engage in extradyadic sex; accommodation was characteristic of those high in commitment, whereas assertiveness was especially common among those with a high intention to use condoms with new sexual partners. These results were obtained among men as well as among women. The participants' past extradyadic sexual behavior and condom use, satisfaction, and investment size did not explain additional variance in any response. The results are interpreted as support for equity theory and interdependence theory.