<![CDATA[Background: Infidelity represents a severe relational stressor that may trigger Post-Infidelity Stress Disorder (PISD) and increase the risk of intimate partner violence (IPV), yet empirical evidence within the Nigerian context remains limited. Objective: This study examined the predictive relationship between PISD and IPV and assessed the moderating role of coping strategies, while exploring differences across gender and age groups. Method: A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed. Data were collected from intimate partners using standardized instruments measuring post-infidelity stress, coping strategies, and IPV. Multiple regression and moderation analyses were conducted to determine predictive effects and interaction patterns. Result: PISD significantly predicted IPV, accounting for 38% of the variance in violent behaviour. Individuals with elevated PISD were 3.14 times more likely to engage in IPV. Females reported higher PISD levels, whereas younger adults demonstrated greater vulnerability to IPV and maladaptive coping. Adaptive coping strategies significantly reduced the strength of the PISD–IPV association. Conclusion: Post-infidelity stress constitutes a substantial psychological risk factor for intimate partner violence. The interaction between stress responses and coping styles plays a critical role in shaping behavioural outcomes within intimate relationships. Originality/Value: This study provides novel empirical contributions to the fields of clinical psychology, relational psychology, and interpersonal violence research by establishing the predictive role of Post Infidelity Stress Disorder (PISD) in driving intimate partner violence (IPV) risk up to 3.14 times, alongside identifying the protective moderation of adaptive coping strategies across gender and age groups regarding post betrayal relational trauma in the context of intimate partnerships in Nigeria, which remains understudied. These findings enrich the empirical literature and serve as a strategic reference in designing culturally responsive psychological interventions, family counseling frameworks, and community-based violence prevention programs]]>
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