Background Information
Adultery is defined as sexual intercourse between a married person and a partner other than their legal spouse. There is no single definition of adultery and it is not used as criminal offence in many countries, including New Zealand. Adultery is an issue that can often be difficult for couples, especially if it results in mistrust and disagreements. In New Zealand, adultery is not grounds for any legal action or consequence, as it is not criminalised.
Legal Standpoint
Under the New Zealand Crimes Act 1961, section 222, adultery is not recognised as a crime. It is also not mentioned in the Marriage Act 1955 as a ground for divorce or dissolution, as the country does not accept it as a viable basis for the termination of a marriage. In New Zealand, the rights of an adulterer are protected under the Human Rights Act 1993.
However, adultery is still legally recognised as a ground for divorce or dissolution in some countries, such as the United Kingdom. In the UK, adultery is one of five possible facts that can be cited in order to obtain a divorce or dissolution. It is seen as a “voluntary sexual intercourse between a husband and a woman other than his wife”.
Societal Perspective
In New Zealand, adultery has traditionally been frowned upon as an immoral act, which goes against the traditional values of monogamy and fidelity. Society has long held that it is wrong for a husband or wife to cheat on their partner, even when the other involved party knows about the situation.
In recent years, attitudes towards adultery have changed. There is an idea that it is acceptable to engage in extra-marital sexual relations, and that it does not necessarily indicate immorality or the breakdown of a marriage. This is often seen in popular media, such as television shows and movies, in which cheating is depicted in a more positive light, and not seen as something that is wrong.
Religious Perspective
Adultery has also been frowned upon by religious groups, who argue that it goes against the teachings of their faith. In the Bible, for example, adultery is regarded as a sin. In the Christian faith, it is seen as a violation of the seventh commandment, “Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery”.
In other religions, such as Islam, adultery is seen as a grievous sin. According to the Koran, adultery is punishable by death if both parties involved are married people, while unmarried people will be subject to other punishments. These punishments are usually physical, such as flogging or stoning.
Conclusion
In conclusion, adultery is not a crime in New Zealand. This is in stark contrast to some of the other countries in the world, such as the United Kingdom. This decision has been made in order to avoid criminalizing the act, and to protect the rights of those who may be involved in adultery. Despite this, it is still frowned upon in New Zealand as it goes against traditional values, and is seen as a sin in many religious contexts.
Effects On Relationships
Adultery can have a range of effects on the people involved and their relationships. For those who discover an affair, emotions such as hurt, anger and betrayal are likely to be experienced. This can significantly impact the relationship, as trust and respect are eroded, and the bond between the couple is broken.
The effects of adultery are also likely to be experienced by the adulterous party. It can result in feelings of guilt and shame, and may lead to the breakdown of the relationship. Many people also experience feelings of regret and remorse after engaging in an affair, as they realise the impact it has had on their spouse and the lives of those around them.
Implications For Children
Adultery also has implications for children, as it can affect their emotional and physical wellbeing. This can include feelings of distress, confusion, insecurity and low self-esteem, as well as behavioral issues such as aggression and violence. Children may also experience anxiety and depression, as well as the feeling that their parents are not trustworthy or loyal.
Such feelings can have an impact on their relationships with their parents, as well as with peers, which can manifest in difficulties such as difficulty forming strong attachments. It can also interfere with their educational development, as they may struggle to concentrate in school, or engage in risky behaviors.
Victim Blaming & Double Standards
Adultery can give rise to numerous double standards, with those who commit adultery being judged more harshly than those who are on the receiving end. This often results in a ‘slut-shaming’ culture, in which those who have been involved in an affair are blamed for their actions, and there is a tendency to view them as promiscuous and immoral.
Additionally, those who choose to stay in the relationship after discovering an affair may be viewed as weak or felt sorry for. This can lead to a culture of victim blaming, where those who have been cheated on are made to feel as though it is their fault and that they are at fault for the actions of their partner.
Advice For Those Who Have Been Cheated On
If you have been the victim of adultery, it is important to remember that the affair is not your fault and to avoid blaming yourself. It can be helpful to reach out and talk to someone you trust, as well as seek professional help if needed.
It is also important to take time to process the emotions that you are feeling, such as anger and hurt, as well as the disappointment that comes with being betrayed. Try to focus on rebuilding, rather than on the negative aspects of the situation, and focus on taking back control over your life.
Alternatives To Cheating
If you are feeling dissatisfied in a relationship, it is important to address the issues rather than resorting to cheating. This can involve talking openly about your feelings and engaging in healthy communication, as well as understanding and being empathetic to one’s needs.
It can also be helpful to seek professional help, and to make sure that both parties are giving their all to the relationship. Other alternatives, such as having a break or engaging in an activity together, can help to break any cycle of boredom that may have developed.
Rebuilding A Relationship After Adultery
Rebuilding a relationship after adultery can be a difficult and emotional process that requires effort from both parties. It is important to make sure that both parties are willing to work on the relationship, and to ensure that there is an open channel of communication.
It is also important to be honest and authentic about one’s feelings, as well as to show empathy and understanding. Additionally, it is important to set realistic expectations and to not expect things to be perfect right away. It will take time to heal and rebuild the trust, but if both parties are patient and understanding it can be done.
