Betrayal Trauma Anger: Clinical Implications for Therapeutic Treatment based on the Sexually Betrayed Partner’s Experience Related to Anger after Intimate Betrayal

Abstract

This article provides insight into the complex anger often following the discovery of broken trust and attachment in a relationship as a result of sexual betrayal. In the past, the helping profession viewed angry betrayed partners from a pathological lens. Through research and progression in the mental health field, betrayed partners are now viewed from a trauma lens as traumatized individuals, and a greater understanding exists of why partners will most likely experience complex anger after betrayal. This article aims to add to the existing literature on the topic of betrayal trauma and provide clinical considerations for assessment and treatment of those seeking therapeutic help to manage and reduce anger. 297 sexually betrayed partners participated in a Betrayal Trauma Anger Survey. Results revealed 83.5% of participants remain in the relationships with their betrayers. 39% of betrayed partners reported not being provided specific help to manage anger from their helping professional. 87% reported self-blame and 43% considered harming themselves. Results clearly indicate that betrayed partners are significantly impacted physiologically, psychologically, behaviorally, and spiritually, and they experience feelings of intense anger with 84% reporting their experienced anger is more intense than at any other time they experienced anger prior to discovering betrayal.