Why do couples cheat?

Why do people cheat on their partners? If I knew the answer, I would be a rich man. I heard a radio host say he thought infidelity had become an acceptable practice because everyone does it. Although the host didn't follow the logic; he just reiterated what he believes has become a normal practice.

It’s a good thing we don’t apply the same logic to killers or drug addicts. Divorce and infidelity is probably more prevalent today because of technology. The Internet and cell phones have made it easier for people to cheat. 

It’s not uncommon to read about people who have run off with someone they met on Myspace or in a chatroom. Over the years, I have asked numerous people for their opinions about infidelity and have received many different answers.

Here are a few:

• Monogamy isn't natural, I just can’t be loyal to one person;

• The spark in our relationship has died;

• My partner is no longer attractive, they have gained weight and I am no longer physically attracted to them; and

• We no longer have anything in common.

It’s unfortunate to hear these responses because these couples must have loved each at one time. There were probably days when they couldn’t wait to spend time together or planned for the future.

I wonder what happened to the fire?

Where did it go? Another unsolved mystery.

Infidelity devastates entire families and leads to broken homes and families. Once an affair comes to light, divorce is usually next unless a couple can get past the affair.

One of the worst problems with divorce is that it’s always the children that suffer. The parents don’t suffer as much because they will move onto other partners and continue with their lives. 

Unfortunately, the children don’t have it so easy. They are forced to deal with mom or dad’s new lover.

There are so many reasons why people cheat that it would be too complicated to try to explain it in a few sentences.

One of my friends offered the best advice to avoid infidelity.

He said the best method to avoid cheating is to remove yourself from a potential situation. For example, avoid being alone with anyone you feel may be attempting to lead you astray. Also, ask yourself if this affair is more important than hurting your spouse and children.

Avoiding temptation may not be the best solution but is probably the most feasible one.