Why do men or women cheat? What is the primary reason? Time to get some clarity on this sensitive subject with the things you need to know about infidelity …
1. Emotional Disconnect
The biggest reason for cheating on a mate is a lack of emotional connection or feeling appreciated by their partner. According to relationship therapist Bree Maresca-Kramer, trouble starts when a couple stops meeting each other's needs, stops talking about things that matter and get distracted by daily schedules, work or business. "They stop trying. It almost becomes a business relationship."
2. It's Not About Looks
In couple's therapist Gary Neuman's new book The Truth About Cheating, 88 percent of men said the women they had affairs with were not better looking or in better shape than their partners.
3. Biggest Signs of Cheating
Neuman found that there are several common signs there could be something going on, or about to, including: spending more time away from home, having less sex, not answering the cell phone, being more critical than usual, and avoiding physical contact.
4. What about Sexting, Texting, or Online Flirting?
With all of the new ways to communicate, how does one know where to draw the line between harmless flirting and betrayal? A good benchmark, our fave TV doc Dr. Drew Pinsky says, is to imagine your partner watching or reading what you are doing. Would they be upset or feel wronged? If the answer is yes, then you are engaging in some level of betrayal.
5. Once a Cheater … ?
How do you know if they'll cheat again? How remorseful the guilty party is will give you a big clue about the future. If the person expresses real remorse and takes full responsibility for their actions, studies say they are less likely to embark on this destructive behavior again. One should be worried about the cheater who makes excuses for their behavior, or isn't apologetic.
6. These Personality Types Are More Likely to Stray
Statistically, the following types are more likely to cheat; those who crave excitement, have a history of divorce, those who were sexually abused, or those who have psychological problems like depression or bipolar disorder.
There's more about why people cheat and signs of infidelity at eHarmony Advice. Plus: dating tips for women!
Originally posted on DivineCaroline by eHarmony
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