What is "emotional betrayal"? Simply explained: Emotional infidelity happens when you have a close and intimate relationship with someone who is not your partner.
Generally your interactions often involve some sexual tension or romantic attraction. This relationship may not seem threatening or problematic, however, it can begin to destroy your relationship with your partner.
Usually, emotional infidelity happens when your closeness with someone else breaks your commitment to your partner. Focus on the relationship you have with him instead of the existing (usually monogamous) relationship.
A relationship has crossed the friendship point when:
- spend more time talking (or thinking) about the other person than your partner
- avoid mentioning the other person to your partner
- know that he/she is attracted to you
- feel physical signs of chemistry between you
- feel less physically or emotionally attracted to your partner
- hope that your partner is more than him/her
- avoid open communication with your partner.
At first, emotional infidelity can seem a lot like friendship. This type of situation can develop when something creates space between you and your partner. When you turn to someone else to fulfill something you lack in your existing relationship, you deny yourself and your partner the opportunity to work on the problem and strengthen your relationship.
How do you pass it as a phase? Frequent, honest conversations can help you rebuild trust and address relationship issues as soon as they arise.
Good communication can even help you resolve some challenges, such as lack of intimacy, before they become worrisome issues.
However, be aware that not all relationships work out, and breaking up can give you both the chance to find someone you can fully commit to.
Sources: GoodTherapy, VeryWellMind
