The phrase "what you don't know can't hurt you" suggests that ignorance or lack of knowledge about a particular situation can protect a person from emotional pain or harm. However, when it comes to marriage and infidelity, this saying can be misleading and potentially harmful.
In the context of marriage and infidelity:
Trust and Honesty: Trust is a fundamental pillar of a healthy marriage. While discovering infidelity can be devastating, building a strong and honest foundation is essential for the long-term success of a marriage. Keeping secrets or withholding information about infidelity can erode trust and create emotional distance between partners.
Emotional Impact: Infidelity is a deeply emotional and painful experience for many individuals. If one partner is unfaithful and the other remains unaware of it, it doesn't mean that there is no harm caused. Emotional distress, even if not immediately apparent, can still affect the individual and the relationship over time.
Deception and Betrayal: Hiding infidelity involves deception and betrayal, which can lead to a breakdown in communication and intimacy between spouses. The betrayed partner might feel a sense of betrayal, anger, and a loss of emotional security in the relationship.
Opportunity for Healing: While confronting infidelity can be difficult, addressing the issue openly and honestly provides an opportunity for healing and rebuilding the relationship if both partners are willing to work through it. Ignoring the problem does not lead to resolution or growth.
Making Informed Decisions: Knowing about infidelity allows both partners to make informed decisions about the future of their marriage. They can decide whether to work on rebuilding trust or consider other options based on the reality of the situation.
In conclusion, "what you don't know can't hurt you" is not a suitable approach when it comes to marriage and infidelity. Open communication, honesty, and addressing issues as they arise are essential for maintaining a healthy and strong marital relationship. If infidelity does occur, seeking support from counseling or therapy can be beneficial in navigating the emotional complexities and deciding the best course of action for both partners.