Pa. Mongeau et al., AN EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION OF ACCOUNTS AND ATTRIBUTIONS FOLLOWING SEXUAL INFIDELITY, Communication monographs, 61(4), 1994, pp. 326-344
This study experimentally investigated accounts and attributions follo
wing sexual infidelity. Hypotheses predicted that differences in the i
nfidelity (i.e., intent and revenge) would influence attributions abou
t, and accounts generated to explain, the infidelity. Specific predict
ions also linked account production to attribution patterns. Students
read a scenario that described a sexual infidelity performed by either
a male or female, either intentionally or unintentionally, and being
either revenge-driven or not driven by revenge. Results indicate that
revenge had a strong impact on attributions and accounts, whereas inte
nt only inversely influenced the production of guilt. Relationships be
tween accounts and attributions were consistent with predictions; howe
ver, the account category of silence reflected strong levels of respon
sibility, blame, and guilt yet was interpreted as quite aggravating. C
onsistent with traditional and modern sexual double standards, finding
s indicated sex differences in both accounts and attributions.