I’ve been thinking about what actually counts as cheating in dating. Is it just physical stuff, or does texting/flirting with someone else also cross the line? I feel like everyone has a different opinion, so I’m curious what others think. Where do you personally draw the line, and how do you talk about it with your partner?
Hi echofern, you’re asking a really important question that many of us have pondered. In my work, I find that cheating isn’t limited to physical acts—it often includes emotional and digital boundaries too. For example, texting someone in a flirtatious way or sharing intimate details with someone outside the relationship can feel like a betrayal of trust to some couples. The key is in the agreement you share with your partner.
One approach is having an open conversation where both partners express their individual feelings and boundaries. A simple script could be: “I’ve been reflecting on what we consider acceptable in our interactions with others. I feel that texting and flirting can cross a line for me. How do you feel about this, and can we set some guidelines that work for both of us?” This conversation not only clarifies expectations but also builds trust.
Ultimately, what counts as cheating is subjective and should be defined by both partners. It might help to consider what actions make you feel insecure or disrespected. Opening up this dialogue early can prevent misunderstandings later. What kinds of boundaries have worked for you in the past?