Cheating is a sensitive subject that has caused pain for many couples. The reasons behind cheating can be really complex, and there isn’t a single explanation that fits every situation. Still, these facts can help us understand cheating while piquing the same curiosity that leads us to wonder why it happens and what it’s like to engage in or be a victim of infidelity.
6 Infidelity Facts
1. Age can impact infidelity, with the likelihood increasing over age 60 in some cases. (Source)
Adultery rates are highest among women in their sixties, but the rates decline in their 70s and 80s. Men, however, are more likely to cheat in their 70s, and it’s still prevalent for men who are 80 years old or more. Apparently, age is not slowing down romantic and lustful thoughts!
2. People in North Carolina, Kentucky, and Alaska are most likely to be involved with infidelity. (Source)
A study found that a shocking 100% of respondents in these states reported having cheated or been cheated on. What is it about these three states that makes infidelity so prevalent? Overall, this study reveals high instances of infidelity in states across the country, with reporting over 50%.
3. Affairs might be common because they are addictive. (Source)
Psychiatrists have found that affairs result in feel-good chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, which means when those chemicals drop again, we begin to crave them. This is similar to how addiction to substances works. Affairs seem to happen because they make people feel good. Those who have participated report feeling younger, more attractive, and more excited.
4. Infidelity has a long history in many different cultures. (Source)
Cultures throughout history have experienced infidelity, including those of the ancient Greeks and Romans, Europeans throughout time, and feudal Japan. We see infidelity in their ancient stories and accounts. It’s not confined by location, with cheating discussed among the Inuit of the Arctic, the people of Brazil’s jungles, and members of African tribal societies.
5. Between 30% and 60% of Americans will engage in infidelity. (Source)
These high numbers highlight just how prevalent an issue infidelity is. It’s even thought this number is a conservative estimate due to the shame of admitting to infidelity. A similar number of people report being unhappy in their marriage, which may be exactly why infidelity is so common. People cite reasons ranging from boredom to dissatisfaction as a reason for infidelity.
6. There are different ways to define infidelity. (Source)
Definitions of cheating can vary among couples and cultures. Some people think that emotional affairs count as infidelity, while others only consider physical acts to count as infidelity. Researchers found that men are more upset about sexual acts than women, while women are more upset about emotional fairs and their partner falling in love than having casual sex with someone else. Perhaps the most important takeaway, however, is that it’s possible for relationships to recover after a period of infidelity.
Featured image photo credit: Markus Winkler.
