Cheating involves breaking a relationship’s agreed boundaries. Those agreements may concern sexual contact, romantic involvement or secrecy, and they differ between relationships. A difficult relationship does not remove responsibility for choosing to break an agreement.
Define the boundary before debating the label
A close friendship or private conversation is not automatically an affair. Ask what was agreed, what happened and whether relevant information was deliberately concealed. Consensual non-monogamy is different from violating an agreement.
Reasons are not excuses
A person may describe dissatisfaction, a wish for attention, opportunity or uncertainty about commitment. Those explanations cannot be assumed in an individual case, and they do not make a partner responsible for the decision. A high sex drive or a change in intimacy does not justify pressure or betrayal.
The earlier version included broad prevalence figures without adequate sources. They have been removed rather than presented as facts about every relationship.
If you have been betrayed
You can take time before deciding whether to stay. Consider what information you need, what boundaries apply now and who can support you. You do not have to keep the experience secret to protect someone else’s reputation, though you can choose carefully whom to confide in.
If both people want to rebuild
Look for specific accountability, an end to the behaviour that broke the agreement and mutually acceptable steps toward trust. An apology alone cannot guarantee future conduct. Repair does not require immediate forgiveness or unrestricted surveillance of either person.
You can decide to leave, stay or seek professional support. A claim of love does not settle the decision, and you do not have to feel exactly as you did before. If there is fear or coercion, prioritize individual support and safety.