Various studies have emphasized factors that contribute to why married men cheat, as well as why people cheat in general. These factors include anger, low self-esteem, lack of love, low commitment, need for variety, neglect, sexual desire, and circumstance. It is emphasized that these reasons are the responsibility of the cheater and not the betrayed partner. Additionally, it was gathered that upwards of 40% of married couples experience infidelity.
Common triggers for cheating in a marriage include frustration, second thoughts about getting married, jealousy, and difficulty in communicating feelings. Childhood baggage, such as neglect, abuse, or a parent who cheated, can also affect a person’s ability to maintain a committed relationship. It was also gathered that men are more likely than women to cheat and often seek more sex or attention, while women may cheat to fill an emotional void.
More studies acknowledge that sexual satisfaction and boredom in the marital relationship can also be drivers of infidelity. It further explores risk factors and causes for cheating, such as addiction, attachment style, childhood trauma, exposure to infidelity in childhood, mental illness, previous cheating, psychological issues, and sex addiction.
Problems in the marital relationship, such as domestic violence, emotional abuse, disconnect, financial pressures, lack of communication, lack of respect, and low compatibility, can increase the likelihood of cheating.
Also, unmet needs and a lack of problem-solving within the relationship are common underlying factors in infidelity. It also mentions secondary reasons for cheating, including the internet, opportunity, poor boundaries, and pornography.
Conclusively, discussing coping with a cheating spouse, the distinction between a cry for help and an exit strategy, and the potential for a marriage to survive infidelity. It emphasizes the importance of seeking professional help and understanding that the decision to cheat is the responsibility of the cheater. Finally, it suggests that couples can overcome infidelity and improve their relationship, but there may be cases where continuing the marriage is not recommended.
