ABSTRACT
Chapter 7 focuses on constructing meaning, which is the second stage of recovery for couples recovering from the trauma of infidelity. This means developing a shared, coherent understanding of why the addiction occurred, one that can replace earlier explanations of the impact stage where denial and blame is rife. With the mutual understanding in place, couples are encouraged to develop greater compassion with themselves, and each other, and to feel and demonstrate empathy. Advice is offered to develop construction communication, including practical strategies as well as guidance on how partners can write an emotional impact letter and explanation acknowledgement letter and how the addicted partner can write an emotional restitution letter and addiction explanation letter. Accountability and boundaries are also further explored in this chapter.
