What is Digital Infidelity?
It is now easier than ever to stay in touch with contacts and meet new people thanks to the internet, emerging technologies, and social media. It has also made it harder to tell what is and is not considered unfaithful. We know it is wrong to meet up secretly with an ex-lover or a new coworker without telling our partner, but what about sending messages via email or social media? When it comes to relationships and digital communications, exactly where are the boundaries? Being unfaithful to a spouse was typically defined as a physical offense for many people, particularly older generations. However, being unfaithful in today’s digital age can take many forms.
It is possible to define digital infidelity as secretly engaging in online communications that go beyond the boundaries of a relationship behind your partner’s back. Examples are forging an emotional connection through online conversations, sending inappropriate photos, or flirtatious chatting. In reality, the screen that separates them from the other person is not a barrier that prevents their new virtual relationship from turning into “real” infidelity. A relationship can be just as severely harmed by digital cheating as by a physical affair.
What Constitutes Exceed the Limit?
An Australian psychologist recently coined the term “micro-cheating” to describe digital infidelity, which is gaining popularity given our increased reliance on smartphones. Micro-cheating, which can potentially result in digital cheating, is the act of leaving heart emojis on another person’s posts, for instance. While these deeds might not seem like much to some couples, they might be more significant to others.
Everything comes down to what your partner and you are both comfortable with. Engage in the conversation to establish your position if in doubt. You should be fine if you don’t need to hide your chats from your partner and are open about who you’re talking to. When you feel the need to hide your actions, there usually is a problem.
Signs of Digital Infidelity
Almost always, the symptoms of any infidelity are very similar. Your partner may attempt to conceal information, demand more privacy, or withdraw from you to spend more time by themselves. You might notice them spending more time online, changing their sleep, or being more secretive about what they’re doing online when they have digital infidelity.
What to do if you Suspect an Online Cheater
Infidelity suspicions can devastate any relationship. Try to talk to your partner, tell them how you’re feeling, and check to see if there’s an apparent reason for their actions. This should be your first step.
If your partner categorically denies any digital infidelity but continues to exhibit suspicious behavior, it may be time to consult a professional to confirm your suspicions or learn the truth. Our matrimonial investigators at Investigate UK can conduct a discreet and professional investigation to find out with whom your partner is interacting, both online and offline.
Check out our Expert Private Investigator Artur Tilis a very informative interview in this podcast.
