You may have been there before with an ex-partner, feeling like something is off but you can't quite tell what or why, before finding out that they have been cheating.
Well, to avoid ever being in that situation again, seven common signs that could indicate cheating has been revealed by a neuroscientist.
Sometimes you can try absolutely everything to fix the problems in the relationship, but the other person just isn't in the same place as you.
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Neuroscientist Eldin Hasa, also the host of the Human Experiment Podcast, explained that in these situations it is important to trust our instincts, when speaking to Metro.
Other signs that indicate cheating may have been highlighted to you before, but here are the seven that you won't miss:
They're more secretive and guarded
This could be as simple as turning away their phone when you enter the room, not being clear on their whereabouts or suddenly putting passwords on their devices.
Eldin says that the part of the brain responsible for processing emotions and detecting threats heightens 'self-protective behaviours when engaging in deceptive acts'.
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They become less emotionally connected
Focused around dopamine, the 'feel good' neurotransmitter associated with reward and pleasure, infidelity can disrupt the release of dopamine.
If they seem distant or less supportive, it could very well mean that their happy hormones are going somewhere else.
Your partner's sexual behaviour changes
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It is widely believed that if your partner is cheating, their sexual desire towards you will decrease, but this is actually a myth.
Well, partly, as their sex drive can go up or down with you if they're cheating, potentially even trying new techniques to try and make up for the unfaithfulness by being more enthusiastic in bed.
Increase in irritability and defensiveness
'Unexplained mood swings, sudden irritability, and frequent defensiveness' are red flags of potential infidelity according to Eldin.
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They may become anxious over being caught, or struggle with the double-life they're leading, resulting in an agitated and aggressive reaction, acting as a protective mechanism that can actually draw more attention to their behaviour.
Odd changes in routine
There might be nothing wrong with your partner trying new hobbies or switching up their routine suddenly, but when they all don't include you and they get evasive when you ask about it, there may be a problem.
Eldin reveals: "Engaging in secretive activities associated with infidelity can trigger a release of dopamine."
Accusations
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"When someone is cheating, they may paradoxically become overly defensive and accuse their partner of infidelity," Eldin explains.
Otherwise known as projection, this form of manipulation occurs when the guilty partner tries to deflect suspicion away from themselves.
Inconsistent financial explanations
Whether it be your partner being broke for no reason, or you noticing some strange payments from your joint account, they may refuse to explain why, which could be an indicator.
Of course, it goes without saying that none of these behaviours are a sure-fire way to tell if your partner is cheating.
Eldin says: "It is crucial to approach suspicions and conversations with empathy, open-mindedness, and a commitment to open communication for a positive resolution."
It may bring you news you may not want to hear, but at least you'll know the truth.
Topics: Sex and Relationships, Mental Health
Joshua Nair