Risk factors for cheating
Why do some partners go outside of the relationship to cheat? While one article could never address all of the vast reasons why infidelity is so prevalent, there are risk factors that can incline some people to cheating. Most people agree that cheating is wrong and immoral, so why do some choose to engage in adulterous relationships? Let’s delve into a brief overview of some risk factors of why some people cheat. However, none of these are excuses for infidelity.
Personality types that lead people to cheat
People who have a sense of entitlement tend to prioritize meeting their own needs above all. Those with a high degree of narcissistic tendencies are at risk for engaging in infidelity. Cheating is typically a search for attention. People that cheat often feel as if the rules don’t apply to them and they have little concern for the consequences. Extroverts are outgoing and this may lead to an unintended relationship that finds its way on the slippery slope to adultery. Flirty extroverts may be sending off the wrong signal without realizing it.
Low Self-esteem and Insecurity Issues can lead people to cheat
Men often subconsciously look to prove that they are still sexually attractive. Women desire to feel cherished and showered with affection. The demands of daily life can lead to a lack of focus on each other. This can cause a partner to seek attention elsewhere or fall victim to the advances of others .
Parental Influence can play a role in why people cheat
Having a parent that normalized this behavior increases the likelihood of a grown child repeating it. Simply put, they learned the way to be a spouse through their same sex parent role model. Parental abuse or neglect can lead to abnormal attachment styles and also a skewed view of normal sexual behavior. Unless a grown child has addressed these childhood wounds, the risk of past trauma affecting their adult intimate relationships in a negative way is a high probability.
Sex Addiction is often linked to cheating
Sex addiction can escalate into cheating as the addict spirals into needing new and different sexual partners whether through affairs or seeking out prostitutes. Even without an addiction, someone with many prior sexual partners may place less value on monogamy in a relationship. This might mean that sex is their main way of connecting with a partner, which increases the likelihood of becoming sexual with a partner outside of the marriage. Also, other addictions that lower inhibitions can help create an environment that leads to infidelity.
Again, none of these are meant to serve as an excuse for infidelity. Regardless of risk factors, people are responsible for their choices