Cheating has been a problem in relationships since time immemorial. Whether it is a married couple or a young couple who just started dating, infidelity is a common issue that could lead to heartbreak and dissolution of the relationship.
While no one could predict with certainty who’s most likely to cheat in a relationship, some studies have highlighted certain traits that are usually found in individuals who are prone to cheating.
Highly Sexual Individuals
People with high sex drives are believed to be more likely to cheat in a relationship.
Sex is an important aspect of any intimate relationship, and individuals who are extremely passionate may find it hard to satisfy their need for sexual gratification with just one partner. They may be tempted to seek sex elsewhere to fulfill their desires.
Individuals with Low Self-Esteem
Low self-esteem could make individuals feel unworthy or unhappy in their relationships. They may be prone to seeking validation outside of their relationship as a means to feel better about themselves.
The attention and compliments given to them by a third party may act as a temporary boost in their self-esteem, which makes cheating tempting.
Individuals with Attachment Issues
People who have attachment issues may struggle with trusting their partners. They may view relationships as unstable and unreliable, which could leave them feeling unsatisfied and unfulfilled.
These individuals may be more prone to cheating as a means of finding emotional stability and a sense of security in the relationship.
Individuals with Narcissistic Traits
People who are narcissistic tend to have an inflated sense of self-importance and entitlement. They may feel that they deserve the best of everything, including multiple partners.
Narcissistic individuals are more likely to cheat as they feel that their needs and desires are more important than those of their partners.
Individuals with a History of Cheating
People who have cheated before are more likely to cheat again in future relationships, a phenomenon known as the “once a cheater, always a cheater” mindset.
These individuals may be more likely to cheat as they may view infidelity as a viable option when things start to go south in their current relationship.
Individuals with a Sense of Entitlement
People with a sense of entitlement may view themselves as deserving of special privileges and opportunities in their relationships, including having multiple partners.
They may prioritize their needs and wants above those of their partner, which could lead them to cheat.
Individuals Who are Impulsive
People who act without thinking may find themselves in situations where they are tempted to cheat. They may fail to consider the possible consequences of their actions, and are more prone to giving in to their impulses which could lead to infidelity.
Individuals who are Emotionally Unstable
People who have high levels of emotional instability are more likely to cheat as they may view extramarital affairs as an escape from their problems.
Cheating may provide them with a temporary sense of happiness and satisfaction, which could lead them to engage in infidelity.
Individuals who are Bored or Unhappy in their Relationship
People who are bored or unhappy in their current relationship may be more likely to cheat as they may seek out excitement and fulfillment elsewhere.
They may view infidelity as a means to escape the monotony of their current relationship and to explore new opportunities and experiences.
Individuals who are not Committed to the Relationship
People who are not fully committed to their relationship may be more likely to cheat as they may not view cheating as a betrayal of trust or an act of dishonesty.
They may be more likely to seek out other romantic opportunities and to engage in infidelity without considering the impact it could have on their partner.
Ultimately, cheating is a complicated issue that is influenced by several factors, including psychological, social, and cultural factors.
While no one could accurately predict who’s most likely to cheat, understanding the traits that could make an individual prone to infidelity could help in addressing and preventing cheating in relationships.