Cheating is a painful experience for anyone, but psychologist Esther Perel has spent decades understanding why it happens. She believes that infidelity is often a response to a relationship losing its spark.
Perel explains that people stray for many reasons: feelings of rejection, loneliness, or disconnection can all play a role. Sometimes, the reasons come from within the person rather than the relationship itself.
She highlights that when a relationship feels “dead” or stifling, some look outside for excitement or connection. Many people have multiple relationships in their lives, and affairs can mark the end of one and the beginning of another.
Perel suggests that couples can avoid this by nurturing curiosity—actively exploring and learning about each other beyond the usual conversations. This curiosity invites playfulness and risk-taking, which can reignite passion and keep love vibrant.
