One of the surprises during the Coronavirus Shelter-in-place episode is that cheating has risen during that time. On seeing reports of that rise, I considered what would account for that happening.
There are a few potential explanations for why cheating might increase during a Shelter-in-place order. The first explanation is that people feel like they have more time on their hands, so they are more likely to engage in activities that they wouldn’t normally do.
When you’re socially restrained or stressed by sudden changes you reach out for comfort. If you haven’t developed healthy coping skills, you return to the skills you know even if it is cheating.
Before you dismiss the lockdowns as being a thing of the past, bear in mind that some authorities are warning of future lockdowns returning.
When you’ve entertained the thought of cheating, the stress that comes with lockdowns makes it appealing. The added stress adds intensity to the experience. You could even call it a ‘danger effect’.
The fact that it’s even more dangerous than usual makes it more appealing to some cheaters. The added adrenaline rush of being doubly dangerous is what lures them.
Although you may have never considered cheaters as adrenaline junkies, when danger adds to the thrill, it’s more about the danger than about the sex. In the brains of such cheaters, they’re seeking maximum stimulation.
Not every cheater is an adrenaline junkie. Those that are considered limits as something to test.
The more of their brain they excite, the more alive they feel. For them, it’s about the high and whatever it takes in getting them there. The virus shut down and the virus itself adds more danger to the whole situation.
The second explanation is that people are feeling more isolated and lonely during the Shelter-in-place order, so they are seeking out ways to connect with other people. Cheating can be seen as a way to connect with someone else, even if it is in a physical sense only.
Adrenaline junkie cheaters are also at high risk for affair relapse. Dealing with them is exasperating when you don’t realize what you’re dealing with.
In my video on “Overcoming Affair Relapse,” I address issues like high-risk situations, high-risk emotions, and coming up with affair relapse prevention plans. Just click and download the program.
When you understand what you’re dealing with, you’ll have tools for dealing with the situation. You’ll also know what the flashing warning signs are that an affair danger is on the horizon.
Keeping It Real,
Jeff
