Children of Unfaithful Parents

Infidelity greatly impacts the family in a negative way. Not only does the betrayed parent feel crushed emotionally, but the child in the family unit is also emotionally damaged from it. Infidelity in a marriage can negatively impact a child and the effects can stay with him throughout his life. When people think about the effects of infidelity they often look at the person who was betrayed and the changes that they go through. This is an important side to look at when calculating the damage that will occur in someone 's life because of infidelity. But in order to get a better understanding of the far reaching effect that infidelity has on the family then step back and take a look at how it touches the child in the family. "[T]he following are core responses experienced by sons and daughters of every age-from young children to adults-once they find out that one or both of their parents has been sexually unfaithful. Loss of trust...., Shame...., Confusion...., Anger and ambivalence toward the betraying parent...., Resentment toward the betrayed parent...., Acting out...."(Nogales). Every child is different and may not experience all of these responses when confronted with the revelation of a cheating parent. Every child will, however, be effected. " But even if it is in the deepest subconscious level, the effect of parents on children is always profound."(Walsh) It doesn 't matter if the child is five or fifteen, she is going to be hurt and confused when she learns that mom or dad has betrayed the family. She will feel that her parent has betrayed not only the other parent but, her as well. Anger towards the cheating parent is also common. " Regardless of what is actually occurring behind the scenes, kids will commiserate with the parent who is the victim. This can actually lead to bitter feelings and resentment toward the parent who is being unfaithful."(Taylor) This child also becomes confused about love and marriage. " Most children are taught that when you

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