The Curious Science Of Infidelity | TNTM

Why do some of us cheat in our relationships and have romantic affairs? Are there factors that may predict infidelity in men and women? What does the science say? For a better understanding of infidelity (and how to spot a potential cheater), HuffPost Science's Jacqueline Howard reached out to sexuality researcher Dr. Robin Milhausen and neuroscientist Dr. Giovanni Frazzetto.

HuffPost Science invites you to join the discussion with top scientists covering the latest news in spaceflight, brain/body research, evolution, and the influence of science on culture.

[chrisc]

The best indicator of a person's likelihood to cheat is their maturity level.  If your spouse shows immaturity in many other aspects of their life, they are likely to mismanage their romantic relationships in the same way and cheat.

If they cheat at sports, they are more likely to cheat.  Immature people cheat at games, not grown adults.

If they cheat on a test or exam, they are more likely to cheat you.  Immature people cheat on tests and exams, not grown adults.

[NephilimIncorruptus]

I've never cheated on a significant other in my life, though I have been cheated on by several women I've dated, and I've occasionally been the person an involved person cheated on their significant other with. 

I remain unconvinced that monogamy isn't a natural state of humans.  For every culture pointed at as an example of how it isn't, many cultures can be given as examples that it is. 

[Coach.JohnnyCage]

This is a fascinating topic, with so many great responses. Obviously, different cultures all over the world have different views and different sub-cultures and even groups within those sub-cultures have differing viewpoints and practices about relationships and sex. It's just speculation at the moment, but maybe our ability to reason has evolved us beyond the bias of our species?
I mean think about it. It certainly makes logical sense. The only thing we as humans all have in common is some way to rationalise whichever way we see it...

...Anyway, I think this has inspired me enough to start developing a hypothesis for my post-grad studies. If anybody else jumps on this or knows of some good, peer reviewed research already out there, please let me know.

[ChipSelekt]

Dopamine doesn't create euphoria. Dopamine enhances expectations of pleasure; the results may or may not make you happy.

[psynthpriest]

I've never cheated, but I have been cheated on. Several times, actually. Probably doesn't help that I am a deep voiced guy, either.

[spielmitmir]

The natural bonding for humans is a small group of men and women who all raise the children of the alpha male.

[karlimbo]

So ... it is scientifically proven to cheat on your partner, doesn't mean you do not love her/him?

[amyglass]

Why are we only hearing from women's perspectives on this topic?

[Thenlightenedne]

This is great, but what can we do to nurture a healthy marriage?

[sentdc]

What a bunch of BS. Where is Cara Santa Maria? I can't watch this.... "religious people cheat less..." hahaha.

[MariaJoao]

Im sorry, is this serious? I though it was a sarcastic video lel this is so stupid

[ScottSosin]

Not impressed.  Host has zero personality.