Understanding the Psychology Behind Extramarital Affairs

The sanctity of marriage is a cornerstone of Indian society. Yet, the harsh reality is that extramarital affairs occur, shattering trust and causing immense emotional turmoil. Understanding the psychology of cheating can shed light on why people stray and perhaps even help couples navigate troubled waters.

Why Do People Cheat?

The reasons for infidelity are complex and multifaceted. It’s not always a case of a loveless marriage. Here are some common triggers:

• Emotional Disconnect: Feeling unheard, unappreciated, or emotionally distant from your spouse can create a void that someone else might fill. Emotional infidelity often leads individuals to seek connection elsewhere due to unmet emotional needs.
• Lack of Intimacy: Physical intimacy is a vital part of a marriage. A decline in sexual satisfaction or frequency can lead a person to seek fulfillment outside the relationship.
• Desire for Novelty: The allure of something new and exciting can drive individuals toward extramarital relationships. The thrill of the unknown, combined with the monotony of a long-term relationship, can make an affair seem enticing.
• Unmet Needs: Marriages evolve over time. If a partner’s needs for companionship, adventure, or intellectual stimulation go unmet, they might look for them outside the relationship.
• Midlife Crisis: A crisis of identity or a yearning for youth can lead some to seek validation through an affair.
• Opportunity and Temptation: Workplace proximity or social gatherings can create situations where boundaries are blurred. Close interactions can foster emotional connections that escalate into physical relationships.
• Unresolved Marital Issues: Long-standing unresolved issues, such as constant arguments and lack of communication, can push individuals to seek solace outside the marriage.

Extramarital Affairs and Indian Law

While adultery is no longer a criminal offense in India (after the 2018 judgment in Joseph Shine vs. Union of India), it can still have significant legal implications:

• Grounds for Divorce: Extramarital affairs can be cited as a reason for seeking divorce under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, the Special Marriage Act, 1954, and the Indian Divorce Act, 1869.
• Custody Battles: Evidence of infidelity may be considered when determining child custody.
• Financial Settlements: Depending on the circumstances, an affair might influence alimony or the division of assets during a divorce.
• September 2024 Supreme Court Judgment: The recent landmark judgment in Yagna Sharma vs. Brijesh Kumar reiterated that while extramarital affairs are not criminal, they can be a valid ground for cruelty, entitling the aggrieved spouse to seek compensation.

Beyond the Law: The Emotional Fallout

The emotional toll of infidelity is immense. Betrayal, anger, shame, and a shattered sense of self-worth are common experiences for the betrayed partner. Children can also be deeply affected by the fallout of an affair.

What to Do if You’re Facing an Affair

1. Communication is Key: Open and honest communication with your spouse is crucial. Try to understand their reasons and express your own hurt.
2. Consider Counseling: Professional counseling can provide a safe space to work through issues and decide whether the marriage can be salvaged. Couples therapy can help identify underlying issues and develop strategies for moving forward.
3. Rebuild Trust: Rebuilding trust requires time, effort, and consistency. Both partners need to commit to transparency and patience throughout the recovery process.
4. Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries to prevent future infidelity, including agreeing on acceptable behaviors and maintaining open communication.
5. Seek Legal Support: If you’re considering divorce or need guidance on your legal rights, consulting a lawyer specialising in family law is essential. Legal advice can provide clarity on the aspects of divorce and separation.

LawCrust: Your Partner in Difficult Times

If you’re struggling with an extramarital affair, LawCrust Legal Consulting Services is here to help. Our team of experienced lawyers can provide legal advice, guide you through the complexities of divorce proceedings, and ensure you get a fair outcome. We understand the emotional turmoil you’re facing and offer compassionate support throughout the process.

LawCrust Legal Consulting Services, a subsidiary of LawCrust Global Consulting Ltd, stands tall as a prominent legal consulting firm in Mumbai and across India. We specialise in a wide range of legal services, including property dispute resolution, Litigation Finance, Mergers & Acquisitions, Hybrid Consulting Services, Startup Solutions, Litigation Management, Legal Protect

Don’t go through this alone. Call LawCrust now at +91 8097842911 or email us at bo@lawcrust.com for a consultation. Remember, you have options, and LawCrust can help you navigate them.