Religiosity and Intimacy with an Extradyadic Partner in Emerging Adulthood: A Developmental Perspective

The present study examined the relationship between intrinsic religious motivation and both physical and emotional intimacy with an extraydadic partner (i.e., infidelity) in a sample of emerging adults (ages 18–25, N = 188) who were involved in dating romantic relationships. The study uniquely conceptualized religiosity in terms of personal and internal connection with religion; additionally, the study included both physical and emotional aspects of extradyadic intimacy behaviors. Contrary to previous research with married adult couples, analyses revealed that intrinsic religious motivation significantly and positively predicted physical and emotional intimacy with an extradyadic partner. Developmental implications are discussed.