Men have traditionally lorded it over when it comes to infidelity statistics. This fact has been largely attributed to the opportunities for cheating presented to them in the workplace as compared to women who mostly stayed at home to take care of the children and manage the household. With the equal career opportunities being currently given to both genders, women appear to be making a statement as well with regards to their participation in acts of infidelity.
While traditional statistical data would show an 80-20 ratio in favor of the men, more recent data tend to show that women's call for equality seem to be extending even to this aspect of living. A 55-45 ratio still in favor of the men shows how much times have changed given the very small difference. This just goes to show that anyone who believes he/she has reason to cheat and given the "right" opportunity to do so will cheat.
The marked difference in the way the respective genders carry out their infidelity is worth looking into. Men are more inclined towards serial cheating which is having successive or simultaneous affairs while married. Women on the other hand, are especially notorious with long-term affairs because of the usual emotional ties that develop.
So much has been said about why men cheat or why women cheat when we should be thinking about why do human beings cheat. We can come up with a long list of reasons, some valid and some are not but we would always end up looking into the main culprit which is unfulfilled need. The wedding is not the end of the work required in the marriage. In fact, it only signals the beginning of what would be a lifetime work to maintain and honor a commitment.
Needs can vary. They can be physical, emotional, intellectual, psychological or a combination of these. Every marriage is bound to reach a point where spousal needs are not being met. These needs have to be recognized and addressed between spouses and within the relationship. The solution is never found outside. Infidelity is palliative and will not provide the permanent solution to the problem.
