Lately, there has been controversy as to whether being emotionally unfaithful is considered ‘cheating’ and if it deserves the same attention as being physically unfaithful. When it comes down to it, they are essentially the same.
These actions are both betrayals of trust no matter if someone’s S/O engages sexually with another or not. We all think that cheating is when someone has a physical affair with a person other than his or her partner. But what about when that S/O starts to have a deep connection with someone else? When they are constantly thinking about them? Or what if their relationship becomes more complex than simply platonic?
An emotional bond that is created can run deeper than a sexual encounter. The fact that they are thinking of another person causes issues in a relationship and can create distance. It causes a person to pay more attention to the outside source rather than their partner, removing themselves from the commitment that they had originally made.
An emotional attachment is more calculated and takes time to create. It is time and effort that one is investing in another person rather than having a one-night stand. To be emotionally involved in another person is like telling your significant other that you are no longer interested in fidelity.
There’s a difference between forming relationships with someone and taking it to the next level, where it becomes flirtatious and questionable. If you are wondering if you’re crossing the line, maybe it’s time to reconsider what each of the relationships you’re invested in means to you.
Regardless of whether being emotionally unfaithful or physically unfaithful are the same, they each can gravely hurt someone. Like our girl, Pat Benatar said, “love is a battle field.” Even if we wish it weren’t, we need to protect our hearts ladies.
Messing with someone’s emotions is arguably worse than a physical encounter. At the end of the day, cheating is cheating. Relationships are built on trust and promise. No one wants to be played. If you are having problems with your partner then be honest with them. Dragging someone along will never end well.