a Cyber affair

There is considerable debate and confusion about what constitutes an affair in cyberspace. Because of the lack of physical presence and /or contact, many have dismissed the concept of extra-marital internet relationships as affairs. However, I strongly believe this is not the case. Cyber-affairs are a rapidly growing threat to marital relationships and need to be recognized and addressed by those who are headed down that slippery slope.

Internet relationships can be pursued anytime you have access to a computer, so you never have to leave your home or office to connect with the other person. It’s so easy. That’s what makes it so dangerous. There are such subtle ways the cyber-relationship can impact the marriage. Your wife says come snuggle with me on the couch. You say I have to take care of some work on the computer and you go online and talk to your “friend.” Now you have not only lied to your wife but you have taken important time from the marriage. You are on that slippery slope. No, it’s worse. I would say you are into freefall if it reaches that level of deceit.

Cyber-affairs can easily become more personal. Videocam can allow the two people to see each other even if they live far apart. That opens the door to enhanced sexuality as they can introduce visual seduction and shared masturbation online. In addition, if the relationship becomes especially strong, what’s to stop the two people from finding a way to meet? What starts as an anonymous, online friendship can potentially evolve into a relationship that has all the characteristics of a traditional affair.