Signs Your Partner is Potentially Being Unfaithful
Remember when Ashley Madison, the website that helps people cheat on their spouses, was hacked? As news spread, many of us probably wondered if our partners would be capable of cheating.
Netflix recently added on its platform the documentary about Ashley Madison’s operations.
A survey by polling company YouGov uncovers some rather startling statistics. When they asked roughly one thousand Americans about their fidelity, 21% of men and 19% of women admitted that they had, in fact, cheated on their partners. Another 7% stated they would prefer not to answer the question. It’s safe to say we can probably put that 7% over with the “yeses.”
Another study, published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, found that the average person has about a 42% chance of cheating on their partner. 9% of these participants admitted they had already strayed.
If these numbers are getting you wondering about your relationship, here are some signs your partner is being (or is thinking about being) unfaithful:
(Before hopping into this, while these are potential signs, please do not interpret this as, “Yes, my spouse is cheating,” or “No, they aren’t”).
1. Changes in Communication Patterns
One of the first signs of infidelity can be a noticeable shift in communication. If your partner becomes unusually secretive, avoids meaningful conversations, or frequently gets defensive, these changes might indicate that they are hiding something. Open and honest communication is the foundation of a healthy relationship, so any abrupt alterations should raise red flags.
2. Increased Secrecy
A sudden need for privacy can be a significant indicator of unfaithfulness. This might include password-protecting devices, closing browser windows when you enter the room, or taking phone calls in private. While everyone deserves personal space, excessive secrecy can signal that your partner has something to hide.
3. Unexplained Absences
If your partner starts spending more time away from home without reasonable explanations, it could signify infidelity. This might involve late nights at work, frequent business trips, or unexplained outings. Please pay attention to inconsistencies in their stories or a reluctance to share details about their whereabouts.
4. Sudden Changes in Appearance
An unexpected change in appearance, such as new clothing, a different hairstyle, or increased grooming habits, can sometimes signal that your partner is trying to impress someone else. While taking pride in one’s appearance is not inherently suspicious, drastic changes without a clear reason can cause concern.
5. Emotional Distance
Emotional disconnection can be another sign of infidelity. If your partner seems distant, uninterested, or less affectionate, it may indicate that their emotional energy is being directed elsewhere. Lack of intimacy, reduced quality time together, and decreased physical affection are all potential warning signs.
6. Changes in Sexual Behavior
Infidelity can also manifest through changes in sexual behavior. This might include a sudden decrease or increase in sexual interest, unexplained new techniques, or a lack of sexual intimacy altogether. These shifts can indicate that your partner is experiencing sexual fulfillment outside the relationship.
7. Unusual Financial Activity
Infidelity can often be accompanied by unusual financial behaviors. Look for unexplained withdrawals, secretive spending, or new expenses that your partner cannot adequately explain. This could be an indication that they are spending money on someone else.
8. Guilty or Defensive Behavior
If your partner exhibits guilty or overly defensive behavior when questioned about their whereabouts or activities, it might suggest that they have something to conceal. Guilt can manifest as irritability, hostility, or deflection of blame.
9. Friends Acting Differently
Sometimes, friends or acquaintances may know about the infidelity before you do. If your partner’s friends or family members start acting awkward or evasive around you, it might be because they are aware of the affair and are uncomfortable keeping it a secret.
10. Gut Feeling
Lastly, never underestimate the power of your intuition. If you have a persistent gut feeling that something is off, it’s essential to trust yourself. While it’s crucial to seek concrete evidence before making any accusations, your intuition can be a valuable guide.
Addressing Concerns
If you recognize these signs and suspect that your partner may be unfaithful, it’s important to approach the situation with care and compassion. Here are some steps to consider:
Communicate Openly: Have an honest conversation with your partner about your concerns. Use “I” statements to express how their behavior makes you feel without sounding accusatory.
Seek Evidence: Before making any accusations, gather concrete evidence to support your suspicions. This can help you feel more confident in addressing the issue.
Consider Counseling: Couples counseling can provide a safe space to discuss your concerns and work through relationship issues, whether or not infidelity is confirmed.
Prioritize Self-Care: Take care of your emotional well-being during this challenging time. Lean on friends, family, or a therapist for support.
Suspecting infidelity can be a distressing experience, but recognizing the signs and addressing your concerns proactively can help you find clarity and resolution. Remember, every relationship is unique, and these signs alone do not confirm infidelity. Open communication, trust, and mutual respect are key to navigating these challenging situations and rebuilding a stronger, healthier relationship.
You Can Recover from An Affair
While it is painful to recognize your relationship may not be as strong as it once was, the good news is, that you can recover from an affair. When the offender shows true remorse and the partner is ready to truly forgive, healing can begin, and the relationship can become even stronger than it once was.
If you or someone you know is reeling from the betrayal of infidelity and you’d like to explore treatment options, please get in touch with me. I’d be more than happy to discuss how I may be able to help.