Cheating is taboo in most relationships, but is particularly rife around Christmas time, if research is to be believed.
Cheating at Christmas time is something that a whopping 5.8 million Britons have admitted to doing. A recent study has revealed that one in 10 have strayed away over Christmas.
Now an expert has revealed those who stray mostly do so for one particular reason.
Relationship expert Dr Nikki Goldstein said in a blog that “trouble at home” is the most likely cause for cheating.
This means those who are unhappy who are most likely to cheat, rather than those who are simply tempted by an attractive co-worker or sexy stranger.
She also added that Christmas time could well contribute to the stresses that cause infidelity, and said: “If you have been facing issues throughout the year, these could tip your relationship over the edge as the holiday period approaches.”
So how can you avoid stresses in your relationship prompting your partner to stray?
Dr Goldstein recommends doing a date night or an activity that reminds you of good times in the relationship.
She said: “Whilst you are focusing on presents and end of year parties, also focus on that special someone in your life and make sure that time, connection and intimacy with them is also on that long list of things to do.”
Cheating dating websites see more sign ups this time of year more than any other.
IllicitEncounters.com, the UK’s leading dating website for married people, has seen a 45 per cent week-on-week increase in the number of people signing up to the site as a result of the snow.
IllicitEncounters.com’s spokesperson, Christian Grant, explains: “After you’ve got a couple of hours of enjoyment playing around in the snow, the reality of being housebound with your partner kicks in; after just a few days, couples experience cabin fever.
“When a marriage is fractured, time away from your partner prevents the cracks from turning into chasms. But when you’re trapped indoors, instead of kicking your feet up and nestling in front of a cosy fireplace, many instead descend into arguments, and it doesn’t take very long for those arguments to spiral.”
These are signs your partner might be cheating on your in the run up to Christmas.
If you are suspicious it has also been revealed when secret meet ups between extra marital lovers are set to take place.
The survey was carried out by married dating website Ashley Madison, which looked to find out its members plans with secret lovers and plans for the festive period.