Why Do People Cheat Even in Happy Relationships? We Break Down the Motivations

It seems that happy relationships should protect against infidelity. After all, if everything is going well, why risk it? But the reality is more complex: even in unions that appear ideal at first glance, sometimes betrayal occurs. Why does this happen? Let's break it down.

They Want More: The Illusion of the Ideal

From the outside, the relationship looks happy, but one person may feel dissatisfied, even if they don't admit it. Social media, with its "perfect" romantic images, creates the feeling that life could be better: more travel, more passion, more spontaneous surprises.

Over time, the person begins to devalue their partner's efforts by comparing them to an invented ideal and seeks what they think is missing elsewhere.

What to do? Remember that happiness is not always an "Instagram photo." Appreciate what you already have in your relationship and talk to your partner about how to add romance and novelty.

Self-Esteem Issues: Trying to Feel Important

People with low self-esteem often seek validation of their worth in the outside world. Flirting and infidelity help temporarily feel important, but the effect quickly fades, and the feeling of emptiness intensifies.

What to do? Work on yourself: invest in education, health, and hobbies. Engage in activities that bring joy and boost self-confidence.

They Miss the Novelty: Dopamine Hunger

Work problems, chronic fatigue, lack of goals – all these can create a sense of dissatisfaction, even when the relationship itself is good. To compensate for the lack of intense emotions, a person might decide to cheat, not realizing that the problem lies within themselves, not their partner.

What to do? Instead of seeking novelty elsewhere, focus on your life in general. Find a new hobby, try something you've always wanted to do but have postponed.

Intimate Problems: Boredom in Bed

Even in stable relationships, passion can sometimes fade. Those who understand that sex is a work of two try to reignite the spark: they try something new, experiment, change the environment. But if the partner is not willing to invest, they may look for "sparks" elsewhere.

What to do? Don't be afraid to talk about intimate issues with your partner. If you find it difficult to communicate, don't hesitate to consult a sexologist – this could drastically change your relationship.

Unhealed Wounds from the Past

A person who has experienced infidelity in the past may carry that pain into new relationships. In an attempt to "get revenge on fate" or close the cycle, they may become the one who cheats.

What to do? Seek therapy. Working through past wounds will help you free yourself from pain and stop projecting it onto your current relationship.

Feeling of Loneliness: Emotional Disconnection

When one partner is frequently absent (long business trips, working in different cities), the other may feel abandoned. If the couple doesn't maintain an emotional connection, loneliness can lead to infidelity.

What to do? Learn to talk about your feelings. Share your concerns with your partner and suggest finding ways to spend more time together.

Nostalgia for Freedom

Infidelity often happens among those who miss their past life: their carefree youth, eventful days. An extramarital affair may seem like a way to reclaim their old self.

What to do? Remember what brought you joy in the past and try to bring it back into your life. A new hobby or a change of scenery can help overcome the feeling of loss.

Emotional Immaturity

Immature people tend to avoid difficulties, demand excessive attention, and lack empathy. They devalue the relationship without realizing its importance.

What to do? If you’re dealing with an immature partner, it’s important to honestly evaluate: are you willing to wait for them to emotionally grow? It might be better to focus on yourself.