Cognitive Factors
Cognitive factors refer to an individual's thoughts and beliefs about cheating. Some common cognitive factors that may contribute to adolescent engagement in sexual infidelity include low self-esteem, lack of impulse control, and a desire for excitement. Adolescents who struggle with self-esteem issues may be more likely to seek validation from external sources, including romantic partners outside of their primary relationship. They may also believe that they are unworthy of love or respect, leading them to feel entitled to cheat without consequences. Low levels of impulse control can make it difficult for adolescents to resist temptation or to prioritize long-term goals over short-term gratification.
Boredom or dissatisfaction with one's current relationship can lead to a desire for novelty and adventure, which may manifest as sexual infidelity.
Social Factors
Social factors refer to the social context within which the adolescent lives and interacts. Some common social factors that may contribute to adolescent engagement in sexual infidelity include peer pressure, parental role modeling, and media exposure. Peer pressure can influence adolescents to conform to societal norms around sex and relationships, even if those norms conflict with personal values or morals. Parental role modeling can either reinforce positive behavior (e.g., faithfulness) or negative behavior (e.g., promiscuity). Media exposure can shape adolescents' attitudes towards sex and intimacy by presenting idealized versions of relationships and sexual experiences that are often unrealistic.
Emotional Factors
Emotional factors refer to an individual's emotional state at any given time. Some common emotional factors that may contribute to adolescent engagement in sexual infidelity include loneliness, anger, and frustration. Adolescents who experience feelings of loneliness or isolation may be more likely to seek out sexual partners outside their primary relationship to feel connected and desired. Anger can also drive adolescents to act out in destructive ways, including cheating on a partner.
Adolescents who feel stuck in a difficult situation, such as an abusive relationship or family conflict, may use infidelity as a way to escape from their current reality.
Impact on Future Relationships
Engaging in sexual infidelity during adolescence can have long-term consequences for future relationships. Adolescents who cheat may struggle to develop trust and commitment within future relationships, as they may fear being judged or rejected due to past behaviors. They may also struggle with feelings of guilt and shame, which can interfere with their ability to form healthy connections with others.
Adolescents who are used to seeking validation from external sources may continue this pattern into adulthood, leading to a cycle of unhealthy relationships and serial monogamy.
What cognitive, social, and emotional factors predict adolescent engagement in sexual infidelity and its impact on future relationships?
Adolescents can be characterized as individuals who are prone to risk-taking behavior due to their desire for excitement and exploration of the world around them (Ward & Clemens, 2015). This often leads to engaging in various types of risky behaviors such as substance abuse and unprotected sex which may put them at risk of contracting STIs and unwanted pregnancies.