Life

Can Cheating Ever Be Beneficial To A Relationship?

Cheating is both an ethical and moral question. It is not uncommon for some people to view cheating as a black-and-white issue, while others see it as a grey area. Differences in viewpoints can lead to big problems in relationships.

Even though a partner cheat doesn’t mean the relationship will end. The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) reports that many relationships continue after cheating. Several relationships tend to be stronger and more intimate after therapy.

Image Credit: Shutterstock/conrado

Here are some key factors you might encounter in a relationship.

Losing Your Love

When you fall in love, the feeling doesn’t last long. Getting a text from someone you love can make you feel passionate, excited, and full of dopamine. Over time, these feelings fade. Love might not exist once the glitter fades. Maybe you realize you’re in love with someone else.

Concerns About Commitment

Everyone has different definitions of commitment. Depending on the relationship’s status, two people can have very different perspectives, such as casual or exclusive. It’s possible to love someone and fear committing to them. In some cases, people who are hard to achieve may cheat. Despite wanting to stay in the relationship, one partner might cheat to avoid commitment.

Image Credit: Shutterstock/Antonio Guillem

A Desire For Sexual Relations

Some people cheat to have sex. Desirous infidelity can also be motivated by unmet sexual needs or opportunities. The desire to have sex might also encourage someone to seek out opportunities. Even people with sexually fulfilling relationships may want more sex. There may be no sexual or personal problems in the relationship, just high levels of sexual desire.

Lack Of Self-Esteem

Sexual contact with a new person can be positive. You may feel empowered, attractive, confident, or booming. The feelings can boost your self-esteem. Self-esteem can also motivate infidelity. Many people cheat due to self-esteem issues and who have loving, supportive partners.