Sex and Psychology Podcast Episode 455: The New Rules Of Cheating
Dec 5, 2025
In this discussion, Dr. Amanda Gesselman, a research scientist at the Kinsey Institute, explores the evolving definitions of cheating in the digital age. She reveals how behaviors like sexting with AI, watching porn, and emotional connections through social media can all be seen as forms of infidelity. The pair also delve into the detective work individuals engage in to uncover cheating, the challenges of digital intimacy, and the importance of communicating boundaries in relationships. Tune in for insights on how technology shapes our understanding of fidelity.
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Infidelity Has Broadened Beyond Sex
- People now view infidelity as broader than physical sex, including emotional, digital, and financial behaviors.
- Technology and AI have blurred the line between human and machine partners, making non-physical betrayal feel real.
Sexting Equals Physical Infidelity For Many
- Sexting now registers as cheating for roughly the same number of people who view in-person sex as cheating.
- Digital sexual behaviors carry weight equal to physical infidelity in many people's minds.
Money, Camsites, And Fantasies Count
- Many people consider interactions with camsite performers and financial support to creators as potential cheating.
- Porn watching is declining as a cheating definition, but fantasizing about others still troubles many.
