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Today, many people claim that it has become difficult to be in an honest relationship. No matter how faithful a person is, many still end up on the bad side of a situation where a partner cheats. But does this give one the right to get revenge?

Why people seek revenge

While most people's morality states that there is no good reason to cheat, people still do it because of eight common reasons. According to a study, these reasons are feelings of anger, lack of self-esteem, lack of feeling loved, low commitment, feeling the need for variety or something new, feelings of being neglected, sexual desire and situational circumstances. And because one person cheats in a relationship, some resort to revenge cheating - the act where one person decides to cheat as a response to their partner's infidelity. 

In a study, researchers found that people decide to seek revenge depending on four factors - the cost in terms of mental and emotional effort in comparison with the desired outcome, the amount of anger or betrayal, the influence of cultural and religious values and external justice or karma.

Forgiving infidelity

In a 2008 study, researchers found that the likelihood that someone forgives their cheating partner is linked to satisfaction before cheating occurred. Aside from that, other factors were the number of times it happened and their partner's willingness to apologize and accept the responsibility.

Psychologists recommend avoiding revenge cheating because it could only result in irreparable damage. Instead, learning to listen to anger without rashly acting on it will help a person go through the problem. In a study, participants who indulged in revenge experienced anger, anxiety, and remorse. 

Focusing on one's mental health will help in decision-making. This should be coupled with honest communication between partners to forgive without holding a grudge.