When you hear “infidelity,” you probably think of some wanker sexually assaulting their lover behind their back. Infidelity is commonly believed to be synonymous with sexual infidelity, but there are other forms, such as non-sexual infidelity.
Rachel Wright, a psychotherapist and sex and relationship expert, defines infidelity as a breach in an established relationship’s agreement on an interpersonal dynamic.
Wright said, “But infidelity isn’t just about how many people you’re having sex with. The act of breaking a romantic, emotional, or intellectual agreement with someone you’re committed to.”
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Infidelity: What Does It Mean?
The act of infidelity, also known as cheating, involves giving the finger to any promises, agreements, and commitments you have with your partner. A typical definition of infidelity implies that people have talked about what is kosher and not kosher in their relationships.
It is still possible to be unfaithful to someone, even if you haven’t had some of these talks. Laura Berman, Ph.D., sex and relationship therapist, said, “Hiding something from your partner, or doing or saying anything you wouldn’t want your partner to see is an indication you may be crossing the line in your relationship. .k.a. cheating.”
The five main types of infidelity are:
- Sexual Infidelity
- Emotional Infidelity
- Romantic Infidelity
- Intellectual Infidelity
- Cyber-cheating
What Causes People To Cheat On Their Partners?
Jesse Kahn, LCSW, CST, director, and sex therapist, said, “There are many reasons people cheat. They may cheat because they are afraid of commitment, or their parents may have cheated on them. People cheat when something is unresolved in their romantic/sexual relationship.”
When someone cheats, it doesn’t mean the relationship is terrible, nor does it represent the other partner isn’t good enough. If you were cheated on, your fault is not yours.
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These Steps Can Help A Relationship Survive Infidelity
Is your relationship strong enough to survive this infidelity? Berman says it all comes down to communication, tackling issues head-on, and working on your traumas.
For maximum success in the aftermath of infidelity, follow these five expert-approved steps.
- Consult a couples therapist.
- Work with an individual therapist as well.
- Earn and regain trust by prioritizing it
- Make room for new kinds of connections
- Continually act with love
It’s important to realize that infidelity has a variety of forms and can appear in many different formats. The recovery process is still possible if both people are willing to work and want it.