7 Reasons Why Women Cheat, According to the Experts
For many couples, infidelity is a devastating experience. When a partner admits to cheating, it can shatter trust and put the relationship at serious risk, whether dating, engaged, or married. While the media often portrays men as the usual cheaters, the gap between men’s and women’s infidelity has narrowed significantly over the years.
According to data from the 2022 Global Social Survey (GSS) by the University of Chicago, about 20% of men and 13% of women confessed to cheating on their spouse. Another survey by YouGov in 2019 reported similar results, with 20% of men and 10% of women admitting to infidelity. Over recent decades, the number of women who cheat has steadily risen, showing a clear shift. But even with these statistics, one key question lingers: Why do women cheat?
Why Do Women Cheat?
Marriage counsellor Shivani Sadhoo says the rise in women’s infidelity is often linked to the changing roles and independence that modern women experience. With more financial freedom and career opportunities than in past generations, many women feel empowered and open to exploring choices that weren’t as accessible before. As women gain autonomy, expectations for marriage have shifted, moving from traditional roles to a desire for deeper emotional connection, happiness, and friendship within the relationship.
Additionally, relationship dynamics tend to shift over time, making it harder for long-term partners to fulfill all of each other’s needs. Today, many people look for a partner who aligns with them in terms of emotional intelligence, career achievements, lifestyle, and shared goals. As these individual needs evolve, some may seek affirmation or connection outside the relationship, especially when feelings of being desired or appreciated become less accessible in a long-term partnership.
Why Women Cheat: 7 Key Factors
Delhi’s leading marriage counsellor Shivani Misri Sadhoo shares seven factors that make women cheat.
Emotional Disconnection
Emotional intimacy is often a foundation in relationships, and when it fades, women may feel isolated or neglected. If they aren’t feeling supported, heard, or valued by their partner, the need for emotional closeness might lead them to seek it elsewhere.
Lack of Physical Intimacy
A drop in physical intimacy can make women feel less desirable and connected. This void, especially in long-term relationships, may prompt them to look outside the relationship for the affirmation and warmth they miss.
Seeking Validation
Everyone wants to feel appreciated, and when self-esteem dips, some women may seek validation from others to feel attractive and valued. This need for reassurance can be especially compelling if they aren’t receiving it within their primary relationship.
Opportunity and Independence
With increasing financial and social independence, women have more freedom and agency than previous generations. The ability to make their own choices can sometimes extend to exploring options outside their relationship when needs aren’t met.
Boredom or Stagnation
Routine can dull the excitement that once defined a relationship. When things start feeling predictable and unstimulating, women may be tempted to find new excitement and passion in a different connection.
Resentment or Revenge
Unresolved hurts or betrayals, whether related to infidelity or other breaches of trust, can cause feelings of resentment. For some women, infidelity may seem like a way to “even the score” or address the pain they’ve experienced.
Curiosity and Personal Growth
Sometimes, women may feel the need to explore or grow beyond their current relationship, especially if they feel it’s limiting. The urge to understand themselves in different scenarios or meet new people can lead to actions outside their relationship.
Cheating is never a justified choice—it’s always better to end a relationship before starting something new. However, understanding why women may be unfaithful can be insightful. Most reasons for infidelity often point back to unmet needs within the relationship. Focusing on maintaining a strong connection and ensuring both partners feel fulfilled can be essential in keeping the partnership healthy.
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