Infidelity can be defined as the act of having a romantic or sexual relationship with someone other than one’s partner. While it is an uncomfortable subject to discuss, infidelity is more common than most people think.

In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of couples seeking counseling due to infidelity issues. In this article, we will discuss the six most common types of infidelity in pairs.

1. Physical Infidelity

Physical infidelity is perhaps the most obvious type of infidelity. It involves engaging in sexual activities with someone other than one’s partner.

This type of infidelity is often driven by physical desires and can happen in a variety of ways, such as one-night stands, affairs, or seeing sex workers. Physical infidelity is often seen as being more damaging than emotional infidelity as it involves a breach of trust and intimacy in a relationship.

2. Emotional Infidelity

Emotional infidelity is when a person develops a deep emotional connection with someone other than their partner. While it does not necessarily involve physical intimacy, it can still be damaging to a relationship.

Emotional infidelity can occur through talking with someone constantly, sharing secrets, and even having feelings for someone else. It can be challenging to detect emotional infidelity, as it is often subtle and not as overt as physical infidelity.

3. Online Infidelity

In the digital age, online infidelity has become increasingly prevalent. It involves engaging in sexual or emotional activities with someone through the internet.

This can include sharing explicit photos or videos, sexting, or having online sexual encounters. Online infidelity can be equally damaging to a relationship as physical infidelity, even though it may not be face-to-face.

4. Opportunistic Infidelity

Opportunistic infidelity is a type of infidelity that is driven by the situation rather than the desire to cheat. It occurs when a person engages in a sexual or romantic activity with someone other than their partner due to circumstances.

For example, a person might engage in opportunistic infidelity while on vacation, or after a night of heavy drinking. This type of infidelity is often impromptu and regretful, but it can still have damaging consequences to a relationship.

5. Revenge Infidelity

Revenge infidelity is a type of infidelity that occurs as a form of retaliation towards a partner. It involves engaging in sexual or romantic activities with someone other than their partner to get back at them for a perceived wrongdoing.

Revenge infidelity can be seen as a form of emotional abuse and typically occurs after a relationship has undergone significant stress or conflict. This type of infidelity can often lead to the end of a relationship, as it reeks of mistrust and betrayal.

6. Serial Infidelity

Serial infidelity is a type of infidelity where a person repeatedly engages in sexual or emotional relationships with people other than their partner. This type of infidelity is often symptomatic of other underlying emotional or psychological issues.

Serial cheaters are often unable to commit, have fear of intimacy, or have narcissistic traits. Serial infidelity is often the most damaging type of infidelity, as it is indicative of deep-rooted issues and a lack of regard for one’s partner.

Conclusion

Infidelity is never easy to discuss, and it can be a painful experience for all those involved. While the six types of infidelity discussed above are the most common, it is essential to remember that not all infidelity is the same.

If you are experiencing infidelity issues, it is crucial to seek help, whether through counseling or other means, to work through the challenges.