The Effect of Construal Levels On Attitudes Towards Infidelity

Abstract

This study examines the influence of construal levels on acceptance of infidelity using a why/how activity. Researchers randomly assigned participants into two conditions: the higher-level construal condition and the lower-level construal condition. Participants in the lower-level construal condition were expected to have higher ratings (more acceptance) on the Attitudes Towards Infidelity Scale than participants in the higher-level construal condition. Results revealed no significant difference in rating responses between construal conditions. Participants in the lower-level construal condition were not more accepting of infidelity than participants in the higher-level construal condition. However, other dishonesty questions showed marginally different responses between construal conditions. The researchers discuss the results and implications of the influence of construal levels on acceptance of infidelity.