The breaking of a sacred agreement between relationship partners is one of the most painful disconnects that can happen to them. Committed couples count on believing that their partnership will never have to face the loss of that promise.

When that happens, the betrayed partner often feels disillusion, disappointment, pain, and anger. But they may, at the same time, feel the positive connections that preceded the betrayal. They cannot just automatically let go of the love and attachment that existed before, as their world is shattering. That conflict is even more intense when the betraying partner is begging for another chance.

If you have been betrayed, how do you react to that anguishing dilemma? What do you need to take into consideration? Thoughts and feelings swirl in your mind and heart. Was it a one-night stand at a far-away convention, or long-term involvement with someone you know? Do they want you but still crave the other relationship? Can you ever get over being lied to? Will you ever trust that this won’t happen again?

If you are suffering from being torn between what your partner has done, and still wanting to stay in the relationship, you are facing a truly hard decision. Don’t expect to make........

© Psychology Today