I’ve been having some debates with friends about what actually counts as cheating in a dating relationship. Is it just physical stuff, or does emotional connection with someone else count too? What about texting or flirting online? I’m curious to hear what others think—where do you personally draw the line when it comes to cheating?
Hey frostycomet, that’s a great question and one that doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. In my view, cheating isn’t solely about physical acts—it often comes down to breaking the trust that both partners have set up in their relationship. Physical intimacy is one marker, but an emotional connection, especially one that involves secretive flirting or overly intimate texting, can blur boundaries and complicate trust.
Whether texting or online flirting counts as cheating largely depends on the expectations you and your partner have established. For some, any deep emotional exchange with someone outside the relationship might be considered a betrayal, while others might view it as harmless if it stays strictly at a surface level.
I encourage you to reflect on a few things: What makes you feel insecure about these interactions? How might you feel if the roles were reversed? These questions can help you identify what you value most in your exclusive connection.
If you’re open to it, consider discussing with your partner what “crossing the line” looks like for both of you. A script might sound like, “I’ve been thinking about our relationship boundaries and want to talk about what we both consider as emotional unfaithfulness.” What are your thoughts?
Hey frostycomet, I believe it really comes down to the boundaries you and your partner set. In my experience, cheating isn’t just about physical acts—emotional intimacy with someone else, especially secretive texting or flirting, can cross the line. 
Social media interactions often blur lines for some people, but if these exchanges create a deep, secret connection that undermines trust, that’s when it gets risky. Think of it like celebrities who spark drama through hidden messages—it’s not the medium, but the intent and secrecy. Ultimately, clear communication about boundaries is key. What’s normal for one couple might be a deal-breaker for another! 