Man or woman, gay or straightanyonecancheat.

9 reasons men cheat in relationships:

They’re looking for a way out.

If they’re looking for a way out, they may see cheating as a means to an end.

Sarah Regan

They’re looking for connection.

Despite what gender norms may tell us about men, cheating doesn’t always happen for purely physical reasons.

In those instances, the compassion and support from another woman in his life may be very welcome.

Kristie Overstreet, Ph.D., LPCC, LMHC, CST

They have sociopathic or narcissistic traits.

If a partner has cheated, there could besociopathic tendenciesornarcissistic traitsinvolved.

“They want what they want, and it’s just that simple.”

The same can be said for sociopathy, aka antisocial personality disorder.

Revenge cheating.

They’re struggling with substance abuse.

If one partner is dealing with a substance abuse problem, instances of cheating may become much more likely.

They’re struggling with their mental health.

They’re seeking validation.

They’re denying part of their identity.

In some cases, cheating can be the result of one partner denying their own sexual or gender identity.

“This could also be true with gender identity issues.

They’re emotionally immature.

Lastly, Birkel and Page both agree that many of these reasons fall under the category of emotional immaturity.

What really counts as cheating?

That’s why it’s a good conversation to get out of the way early in a relationship.

“People have very, very different feelings about this,” Page notes.

“This is something that needs a lot of discussion between partners.

Again, it’s a conversation that should be had sooner than later.

In general, though, when it comes to cheating, Birkel sayssecrecy is often involvedand guilt.

“Secrecy is often a big part of it.

Signs your partner may be cheating.

The following signs are by no means absolute indicators your partner is cheating.

How couples handle instances of cheating is completely personal.

Some people are unable to accept the break in trust, and others are willing to work through it.

And that’s really the most important thing.

But knowing when to walk away, too, is just as important.

Gauge if the cheating partner is actually willing to commit to change.

It’s a deeper issue, and there are deeper roots that need to be addressed.”

He adds that it’s important to understand the “why.”

“And I don’t think a partner of that person should tolerate that level of not caring.”

Center the feelings of the person who was cheated on.

The bottom line.