What Makes People Cheat on Their Partners?

Cheating is a global issue that has been around seemingly forever. However, relationships seemingly perfect on the surface can have issues bubbling just beneath. Whether you are the cheater or the cheated, it brings a significant problem for any relationship.

Understanding the “why” of the situation may not result in any positive feelings, but it can at least unearth the reality of the problem. For example, there is a multitude of reasons why people cheat. Though none of them makes the act better or “okay,” it can provide a measure of understanding.

Falling Out of Love

This is perhaps the most common reason. There are times in a relationship where one party does not have the feeling that they once did. However, it doesn’t mean that there is no love in the relationship – we can care for a person even if we don’t want to be with them anymore.

For some, not having those intense feelings of love is a sign that things aren’t working. However, when the situation becomes stressful, it can lead to the desire to find more excitement and passion and achieve the dopamine fix we get when relationships entice us.

Distance

Technology has made a lot of things possible in recent years. We now can communicate with anyone from all corners of the earth in mere moments. This has made it possible to maintain relationships even from across the globe.

But in many instances, those long-distance relationships wind up fizzling out. The inability to be near that person, feel their touch or embrace, can become overwhelming. For relationships that are primarily over a long distance, they usually end in unfaithfulness or just an end period.

Not getting the affection that comes with seeing someone in person can take its toll over time. So it should come as no surprise that people involved in long-distance relationships fall prey to infidelity more often.

Sexual Desire

This is another of the most common reasons for infidelity. Even if both parties click on an emotional level, something missing from their sex life could lead to wanting from one or both parties.

When something is missing from the sexual component, it can lead to straying. Even though they are in a sexually fulfilling relationship, some simply want more. It can come from intimate or sexual issues or even a high level of desire. It all depends on the situation.

Feeling Unwanted

For relationships that have been going for a long time, it can be all too easy to fall into the routine of life. Unfortunately, that means putting time and energy into other obligations and responsibilities, which takes away from the relationship as a whole.

Over time, there can be feelings of a lack of wanting from one party. Then, with enough time and desperation, it can lead to cheating even from those deemed as someone who would “never cheat.”

Relationships require a lot to work. When one component is missing, and there is a lack of self-esteem, the cheater may simply be looking for confidence, feeling attractive or empowered, or attention. Having attention from someone else can fulfill all of those, restoring their self-esteem.

Commitment Issues

Some enter into relationships but have problems fully committing to someone. “Commitment” can vary depending on the situation and person, but it generally means staying with one person and giving them all you have to offer.

When someone begins to wane in their commitment – meaning they have no plan to commit long-term, want something more casual, or want out of the relationship – it can lead to cheating. In the latter case, cheating can be a way of getting out of a relationship without breaking up with someone.

It is important to note that a lack of commitment doesn’t always mean cheating, but it is a common avenue.