Health and Healing Dealing with Trauma and Addictions

Patterns Leading up to Affairs in Committed Relationships Identified by New Study

Michael D. Season 1 Episode 9

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0:00 | 13:52

A gradual relationship decline prior to one person having an affair—and a once-or-twice affair happens—a new study has identified a pattern. Very rarely does a healthy relationship occur afterward. The study hoped to offer insight into whether relationship problems actually precede affairs or whether they mostly happen afterward. 

Are cheaters destined to keep repeating the same pattern forever? Once a cheater, always a cheater? 

People that cheated on their partner reported lower self-esteem, lower relationship satisfaction, and lower intimacy. Those cheated on only reported lower self-esteem and more conflicts.  

Sadly, people involved in infidelity did not recover as much as from other life events. But bounce back does happen. 

Anxiety can trigger depression and other behavioral, physical, and mental health issues. It is especially hard if you are dealing with other personal, work, relationship, or family-related issues. Please be aware that it is okay to ask for help.