Money and Betrayal: Perceptions of Alimony Fairness in Relation to Infidelity

Alimony is a contentious topic often argued over during divorce. Individuals getting divorced seek fairness in an alimony settlement, but due to how laws are written this can seem arbitrary. Public policy suggests should reflect the suggestions of people it affects. Thus, public perception important component discussion what fair for spouses. In addition, infidelity marriage might change views fair. This study collected data from 1,285 individual United States participants. Participants were randomly assigned vignette condition related hypothetical scenario where one spouses had committed infidelity. Using logistic regression and multivariate Heckman selection models, we find when higher wage earner has affair, they punished with amount longer period. Further, t-tests indicate that men more than women. Finally, comparisons made three formulas used across States. Financial therapists may be able use information help divorcing couples separate emotional aspect affair needs or ability pay alimony. The results two-fold: keep marital estate intact couple heal emotionally.