Infidelity can be a devastating blow to any relationship. While some people may be oblivious to their partner’s deceitful ways, others may pick up on subtle signs that something is amiss. According to Elena Touroni, a consultant psychologist, there are several key indicators that may suggest your partner is cheating.
One of the most significant signs is a history of infidelity. As Touroni notes, “Generally, if a person has cheated once, there’s a psychological reason behind it, meaning they will tend to do it again.” This behavior is often driven by underlying anxiety and a fear of commitment.
Another sign to look out for is an imbalance in emotional needs. When one partner is more needy than the other, it can create tension and drive the insecure partner to seek external validation. As Touroni explains, “The ‘insecure’ partner is driven away and might seek some external validation or affirmation from another relationship.”
A lack of commitment is also a red flag. If your partner is hesitant to commit to your relationship, it may be a sign that they are already invested in someone else. Touroni notes that this behavior is often driven by a fear of intimacy and a desire for freedom.
Childhood traumas can also play a significant role in infidelity. People who experienced neglect or abandonment in their childhood may be more prone to seeking out unavailable partners. As Touroni explains, “They are repeating something in the hope for a better experience, but in reality, they’re more likely to suffer.”
Significant life events, such as the birth of a child or the loss of a loved one, can also create distance in a relationship and increase the likelihood of infidelity. As Touroni notes, “Usually, there’s an event that triggers an affair.”
A low sex drive can also be a sign of underlying issues in a relationship. As Touroni explains, “The better the sexual relationship, the more likely it is that the relationship overall is in a good state.” A lack of intimacy can create distance and increase the likelihood of infidelity.
Finally, being in a relationship with a narcissist can also increase the risk of infidelity. As Touroni notes, “They might be more impulsive, prioritizing pleasure and having fun as opposed to being a committed partner.”
While discovering infidelity can be a painful experience, it is not always a death sentence for a relationship. As Touroni notes, “Discovering that a partner has had an affair is a hugely painful thing for someone to go through, but at the same time, I do genuinely feel that if something is understood and worked through properly, and both people are willing, it can also be a completely new beginning.”
