Expert shares 5 major signs your partner is about to cheat on you

An expert has revealed the five major signs that your partner could be about to cheat on you...

Cheating can destroy a relationship. Credit: Witthaya Prasongsin/Getty Images

Relationships can be tough, but it's pretty unanimous that even if you're in a rocky patch, cheating on your partner is the wrong thing to do.

Sadly, this doesn't stop people from being unfaithful, and it is really hard to salvage a relationship from that point.

But are there any signs that you can pick up on that indicate your partner is about to cheat on you?

According to one expert, there is.

Marriage and family therapist Elizabeth Winkler has shared key insights in an op-ed for the Mail Online, outlining five behavioral patterns that could indicate a partner is on the verge of being unfaithful.

Cheating is often seen as unforgiveable. Credit: DjelicS/Getty

Unlike a fleeting lapse in judgment, compulsive infidelity is often rooted in addiction, Winkler explains.

"Unlike a one-time lapse in judgment, this type of infidelity comes from an uncontrollable cycle where the individual feels compelled to seek new connections or experiences, regardless of the consequences," she writes.

According to Winkler, sex and love addiction are serious conditions that go beyond simple dissatisfaction in a relationship. Those affected may use new encounters as a temporary escape from emotional distress, though the relief is short-lived.

"Unfortunately, the relief doesn't last long and is usually followed by shame and a return to the same destructive cycle," she notes, advising those struggling to seek support through organizations like Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous.

There are signs that someone could be about to cheat. Credit: Delmaine Donson/Getty

Winkler highlights the psychological effects of feeling desired, explaining that external validation triggers the brain’s pleasure chemical, dopamine.

"It plays a powerful role in sexual dynamics, giving those who cheat a rush that temporarily fills an emotional void," she states.

However, much like an addictive substance, this high fades over time, often pushing individuals to seek even greater validation.

"As with all drugs, however, that feeling eventually wears off – and something more powerful is needed the next time," she continues.

This pattern is particularly common among those with narcissistic tendencies, who rely on external approval to mask deeper emotional wounds.

Past trauma can significantly impact adult relationships, sometimes manifesting in destructive behaviors like cheating.

"We all carry some level of undigested emotional pain from childhood, a time when we didn't have the capacity to fully feel or heal," Winkler explains.

For individuals who have experienced significant childhood trauma - such as neglect or grief - infidelity may serve as a defense mechanism against future heartbreak.

"Think of it as consciously blowing up something good in order to avoid another uncontrolled and painful ending," she writes.

Winkler emphasizes the importance of addressing past wounds, both individually and as a couple, to foster a healthy relationship.

Hopefully, your relationship doesn't need this advice. Credit: Tim Robberts / Getty

Some individuals may unconsciously undermine their own happiness, particularly in moments of success.

Winkler recounts a case in which one of her female clients cheated on her partner shortly after receiving a job promotion.

"On the surface, she appeared to be thriving, but deep down, she felt unworthy of both her professional and personal success," she shares.

The therapist explains that self-sabotage is often rooted in deep-seated insecurities or past grief.

"Loss, whether it is of a loved one, a relationship, a job, or a home, can reopen the 'graves' of past losses, overwhelming an individual with feelings of grief and unworthiness," Winkler writes.

A partner who is emotionally withdrawn may be exhibiting a key sign of infidelity.

"You've likely heard someone say: 'He's emotionally unavailable.' This phrase frequently comes up when discussing infidelity, since cheaters are often described by their partners – and sometimes by the mistress too – as emotionally distant," Winkler explains.

According to Winkler, individuals with avoidant tendencies struggle with deep emotional intimacy.

"Avoidants tend to feel overwhelmed by the deep intimacy that comes with being in a committed relationship. While they may crave connection, that intensity of closeness can feel suffocating, triggering their defense mechanisms to create emotional space," she adds.

Now you know what to look out for, but hopefully you never need to use this advice!

Featured image credit: DjelicS/Getty