How Feelings of Inadequacy Contribute to Infidelity in Long-Term Relationships
Long-term monogamous relationships are often seen as stable and secure, but they can also be vulnerable to various stressors that may lead to infidelity. One such stressor is low self-esteem, which refers to an individual's perception of their worth, value, and abilities. Low self-esteem can result from various factors, including past experiences, negative life events, social comparison, and unrealistic expectations. It has been found that individuals with low self-esteem are more likely to engage in extramarital affairs than those who have high self-esteem. This article will explore how feelings of inadequacy contribute to infidelity in long-term partnerships.
What Causes Low Self-Esteem?
Low self-esteem can arise from a variety of sources, such as childhood trauma, bullying, or societal pressures.
Growing up in a family where parents criticized one's appearance, intelligence, or performance could lead to low self-esteem. Bullying or teasing during childhood or adolescence can also affect self-esteem, especially if it involves sexual harassment or physical violence.
Societal pressures like body image expectations or materialism can cause individuals to feel inferior to others, leading to low self-esteem. These factors can make people feel inadequate, unworthy, and unloved, resulting in emotional instability and relationship issues.
How Does Low Self-Esteem Affect Relationships?
When someone has low self-esteem, they may struggle with feeling secure, loved, and worthy in their relationship. They may fear being rejected or abandoned by their partner because they do not believe they deserve love or attention. As a result, they may seek validation outside the relationship to boost their self-esteem. Infidelity may seem like an escape route to find confidence, validation, and fulfillment.
Individuals with low self-esteem may be more likely to view themselves as victims of circumstance rather than taking responsibility for their actions. This mindset can lead them to blame their partner for any problems or unhappiness, which can further damage the relationship.
How Can You Cope With Low Self-Esteem In Relationship?
Coping with low self-esteem is essential for maintaining healthy relationships. One approach is to practice positive affirmations, which involve repeating positive statements about oneself to counter negative thoughts.
Saying "I am worthy" or "I am loved" can help shift one's perspective and improve self-esteem over time. Engaging in activities that enhance personal growth and development, such as volunteering, learning new skills, or practicing gratitude, can also increase self-confidence and happiness.
Seeking professional support from therapists or counselors who specialize in self-esteem and relationships can provide valuable insights into how to improve relationships while managing feelings of inadequacy.
How do feelings of inadequacy or low self-esteem contribute to the likelihood of infidelity in long-term partnerships?
The feeling of inadequacy is often an underlying cause for seeking out relationships that seem more fulfilling than one's current relationship. This can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction, which in turn may increase the risk of engaging in infidelity if not addressed through effective communication within the partnership. When people feel they are missing something from their current partner, they might seek it outside the relationship rather than addressing the issue with their partner directly.