Emotional distancing & 10 things that sell out cheating men in relationships

While both men and women can be unfaithful partners, this article focuses on identifying some common signs that might indicate a man is cheating in a relationship.

Recognising these signs can help ladies address the issues in their relationship and decide how to move forward.

Man speaking on phone next to a sleeping lady Pulse Live Kenya

READ: Here are 7 ways you may be micro-cheating on your partner

Emotional distancing

One of the first signs that can sell out men in cheating relationships is emotional distancing.

A man who is cheating may become emotionally unavailable to his partner. He might seem detached, uninterested in sharing feelings, or withdrawn.

This emotional gap can create a sense of distance and loneliness for his partner.

Sudden increase in privacy

Privacy is essential in any relationship, but a sudden and excessive need for privacy might raise suspicions.

If your man starts guarding his phone, becomes secretive about his whereabouts, or locks his devices with new passwords, it could be a sign of cheating. Men often resort to these measures to hide their extramarital activities.

Man hiding behind a wall Pulse Live Kenya

Decreased intimacy

Cheating often results in decreased intimacy in the primary relationship. A cheating man might avoid physical affection, such as hugging, kissing, or holding hands.

Sexual intimacy may also decline significantly, as the emotional connection between the couple weakens.

Changes in routine and habits

Sudden changes in daily routines and habits can raise suspicions. A man who starts coming home late without valid reasons or frequently engages in activities without explanation might be involved in a cheating relationship.

These changes can be a red flag that warrants further investigation.

Increased secrecy

Men who cheat often become more secretive about their activities. They may guard their phone, avoid discussing their plans, or refuse to share their whereabouts. Secrecy can fuel mistrust and anxiety in the relationship.

Aman looking at his phone Pulse Live Kenya

READ: How to deal with a chronic cheater

Frequent mood swings

Infidelity can lead to emotional turmoil in a man's life. Frequent mood swings, erratic behavior, and irritability can be signs that something is amiss.

These mood shifts may result from the internal conflict between maintaining a secret relationship and carrying on with their primary partner.

Defensiveness and avoidance

A cheating man might become defensive when questioned about his behaviour or accused of infidelity.

He may avoid conversations about the relationship altogether. This defensiveness and avoidance can be an attempt to deflect attention from his actions.

Changes in communication

Communication patterns in a relationship can reveal signs of cheating. A man who is cheating may suddenly change the way he communicates with his partner.

Couple arguing Pulse Ghana

He may become overly critical, argumentative, or dismissive. Alternatively, he may communicate less frequently or seem uninterested in meaningful conversations.

Unexplained absences

Frequent unexplained absences or mysterious outings are also cause for concern.

If your partner often has reasons for being away, especially during odd hours, it might indicate infidelity. Cheating men often use these absences to meet with their extramarital partners.

Changes in appearance and grooming

Men who cheat may become more conscious of their appearance and grooming habits. They might start working out more, changing their style, or using new cologne.

Smartly dressed man Pulse Live Kenya

These efforts could indicate an attempt to impress or maintain the interest of their secret partner.

Inconsistencies in stories

Cheating men often struggle to keep their stories straight, leading to inconsistencies in their explanations.

If you notice that your partner's stories don't align or change over time, it may be a sign that he is hiding something.

Check it out here!