You may frequently hear about someone having multiple affairs with the same or different people. This begs the question: do people who have affairs tend to have repeated affairs? Or can infidelity make people addicted? Check out the details in the following article.
What constitutes addictive cheating?
Repeated infidelity is often referred to as serial cheating or compulsive cheating disorder. Although not an official term, it describes a condition where a person engages in infidelity repeatedly.
Compulsive cheating disorder is not recognized as a mental disorder in the DSM. However, it is frequently linked to other disorders, such as OCD or sex addiction. Cheating is considered compulsive behavior and falls under the category of addictive behavior, which may explain why some people get stuck in a cycle of repeated infidelity.
It is unclear why someone might develop a tendency for repeated affairs or a cheating addiction. According to Psych Central, people who frequently have affairs may have complex underlying reasons, such as trauma. Cheating can also be related to psychological conditions like:
- Narcissism
- Impulsivity
- Thrill-seeking
- Feeling inferior
Repeated infidelity can also indicate an unhealthy state in a relationship. A lack of emotional or physical intimacy, poor communication, unresolved conflict, or unmet expectations can lead some people to seek fulfillment elsewhere.
Signs of repeated cheating
No two people show the same signs of infidelity. However, people who cheat frequently tend to engage in problematic behaviors regularly. Common signs include frequent lying and possessiveness over their belongings. People at risk of cheating may exhibit the following signs:
- History of infidelity: Cheating often occurs in patterns. If your partner has previously cheated, there is a good chance they might cheat again
- Compulsive behavior: People with addictive cheating tendencies may also have other behavioral issues, such as a fondness for other sexually inappropriate activities like compulsive pornography or masturbation. They may also engage in compulsive behaviors such as drug use, disordered eating, gambling addiction, and excessive shopping
- Possessiveness of cell phone: Those with compulsive behavioral problems tend to hide their behaviors, including being extremely cautious when using their phones. They might be very protective of their technology and forbid others from touching their phones
- Frequent lying: People who have affairs are more likely to lie about various topics, making it difficult to distinguish between their version of the truth and the actual truth
- Accusing you of an affair: Some compulsive cheaters project their actions and guilt onto their partners, accusing them of having an affair
- Gets bored easily: People addicted to cheating may prefer the chase over maintaining a relationship. For them, pursuing someone is a challenge, so they cheat easily
Can cheating addiction be treated?
If you believe you have a tendency to cheat frequently and it is interfering with your relationship, you should see a doctor. Additionally, if you suspect you have a sex addiction, it is advisable to seek professional help.
Recurrent infidelity can be treated with a variety of therapies, including:
- Medical treatment: Compulsive behavior can be caused by mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or OCD. These conditions can be treated with antidepressants. For the best results, this treatment should be combined with therapy and lifestyle changes
- Therapy: Therapy and counseling can help with infidelity recovery, especially if your partner has lost trust. If one or both partners are hesitant to stay in the relationship, counseling can offer guidance and support
If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.
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- dr Nadia Opmalina