Virtual sexual infidelity is when an individual participates in a romantic/sexual encounter online with someone outside their main relationship. It can take various forms such as sexting, flirting, video chatting, or even full intercourse. Some common reasons for engaging in this behavior include boredom, exploration, attention seeking, escapism from real-life problems, need for validation, and curiosity about what others are doing.
Many studies have been conducted to identify cognitive patterns that predict engagement in virtual sexual infidelity.
People who engage in this behavior tend to be more impulsive, open to new experiences, less committed to their current relationship, and feel less satisfied with it than average. They also have lower levels of attachment anxiety, which may indicate a desire for greater independence.
Those who seek out new sexual partners online often have higher levels of self-esteem and self-efficacy, which could lead them to believe they can handle multiple relationships successfully.
One theory suggests that individuals engaged in virtual sexual infidelity might exhibit signs of hyper-masculinity, which is characterized by pursuing sexual gratification without emotionally connecting with partners. This could explain why men are more likely to engage in this behavior than women. On the other hand, women may be more attracted to emotional intimacy and commitment, making them less inclined to seek it out through anonymous encounters.
Further research has found that those who engage in virtual sexual infidelity tend to have an altered perception of reality, believing that fantasy is more desirable than actual physical relationships. They may also have a distorted view of what constitutes cheating or ethical behavior, as they consider online interactions to be more benign than real-world ones.
Understanding these cognitive patterns can help us better understand why some individuals engage in virtual sexual infidelity and how to prevent it from happening. It's important to remember that everyone is unique and has different needs, but recognizing potential red flags such as low commitment or satisfaction in your relationship can help you address any underlying issues before they become serious problems.
What cognitive patterns predict engagement in virtual sexual infidelity?
The study of virtual infidelity has recently become an important topic for researchers as more people are using online dating platforms to meet partners outside their current relationships. Virtual infidelity is defined as "engaging in intimate behaviors with another individual via the internet when you have already entered into a committed relationship" (Donnelly & Buss, 2015).