Infidelity is the breaking of a promise to remain faithful to a romantic partner, whether that promise was a part of marriage vows, a privately uttered agreement between lovers, or an unspoken assumption. As unthinkable as the notion of breaking such promises may be at the time they are made, infidelity is common, and when it happens, it raises thorny questions: Should you stay? Can trust be rebui
What Is Infidelity? (Plain Language Explanation)
Infidelity refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About Infidelity
- Symptoms: The specific ways infidelity shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen infidelity
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When infidelity occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Infidelity
- Infidelity is far more common than most people realize
- Infidelity is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with infidelity see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about infidelity is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing infidelity, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.