Cheating is often a sensitive topic. It is often seen as a betrayal of trust and a point of debate but wherever there is a relationship, the talk of cheating is there. And in spite of common belief, both men and women cheat. Men, however, cheat for reasons more varied than women! And some of them completely opposite.
Psychology of love and relationships has often delved into the murky areas of cheating. Scientists have conducted research to understand what drives a man or a woman to cheat. And strangely, some of the reasons are diagonally opposite for the two genders.
Let us look at the reasons why men cheat.
Also Read | Love, Sx Aur Dhoka: Why Women Cheat – Reasons Are Not What You Think
5 Psychological Reasons why Men Cheat
Lack of emotional connection or intimacy
The top reason often discovered by psychologists why men cheat was not the desire for sex but rather a lack of emotional connect. But this often does not translate into an emotional fulfilment. Often, men seek intimacy to overcome the lack of emotional connect in the relationship.
Low self-esteem or insecurity
Society puts a lot of expectations on men. Even if we do not admit it, the fact remains that men are expected to act and conform to a certain manner as well. Much like women are! In such situations when societal pressures wreck the self esteem of a man, cheating seems like therapy. Men, riddled with low self esteem and insecurities were more prone to cheating than otherwise.
Desire for excitement of novelty
It might come as an affront to some but sometimes it’s simply the desire for something new. The famous – bored of dal roti, wanted some pasta today kind of a statement. Even if it sounds reckless and callous, sometimes the reasons are simple – just like men are. Cheating adds the element of adventure to their lives. This reason often dominates during mid-life. An ageing man might seek excitement to validate his vitality.
Poor communication, relationship skills
Communication is the key to success. Whether it is professional or personal relationships, a good communication is paramount. However, this is not a skill possessed by many. Sometimes it is skill and sometimes it is an impasse developed due to underlying circumstances, but relationships that have poor communication often drive one partner on the path of cheating. The psychology borders on the lack of expression.
Personal issues or stress
Stress is another big reason why men cheat. It could be monetary, physical or emotional stress – when the person feels cornered, they often search for quick way out. It could be the anonymity offered by cheating or the sense of control. Stressed, the body seeks relief. Often, it tends to avoid the situation that aggravates it. Cheating might just provide that release that helps men overcome the personal issues.
No matter what the reason – the psychological tumults are faced by all. What tips the man is the opportunity and circumstance. Without an opportunity, none of the above concerns would result in cheating.
Also, men have often pointed out that cheating for them is often more physical than emotional. Even if what lead to cheating was an emotional upheaval in the relationship – the act of cheating is largely physical.
Cheating Kills Relationships
Irrespective the reason, cheating is a betrayal of trust that can break relationships and homes. If you think your partner is cheating on you, try and seek guidance and help. Professional support might help you handle the problems in a better manner.