“Once A Cheater, Always A Cheater?” Study Finds Infidelity is Often a Repeated Behavior
At InfoPro Investigations, we’ve handled hundreds of cases involving suspected unfaithfulness. Our real-world experience aligns with rigorous academic research: individuals who have cheated once are significantly more likely to do so again. If your partner has a history of infidelity (in past relationships or marriage) and you’re noticing red flags, we can help you identify patterns and advise on next steps.
Why History Matters
Research shows there is a measurable increase in risk when someone has previously been unfaithful. For example, a longitudinal study followed 484 unmarried adults through two successive significant relationships. Those who reported unfaithful sexual involvement in the first relationship were three times more likely to report it in the second. Meanwhile, individuals who knew their partner had cheated were twice as likely to experience the same in the next relationship. (PMC)
While this doesn’t mean “guaranteed repeat cheating,” the risk is noticeably higher. (Psychology Today)
Red Flag Indicators
In alignment with our investigative work, here are some warning signs of someone who may repeat bad behavior, aligned with research findings:
A prior affair or pattern of affairs in a partner’s past relationships
Lack of genuine remorse, avoidance of addressing the behavior, or shifting blame
Low emotional maturity, bad communication skills, and previous trauma
Manipulative tendencies, ongoing secrecy, defensiveness, or controlling the narrative instead of openness to accountability
What This Means for You
If your partner has cheated before and you are now experiencing suspicion, it’s not just a matter of trust - it’s a matter of risk management. Your instinct may say “something’s off,” and research supports that you should pay attention.
At InfoPro Investigations we offer confidential, no-obligation consultation to assess risk and potential next steps. As experts in Infidelity Investigations, we provide discreet investigative services to gather evidence about present behaviour, as well as advice on how to interpret findings, discuss them with your partner, and decide what comes next.
While research doesn’t dictate destiny (“once a cheater, always a cheater” isn’t a universal rule), it does show a clear pattern of increased vulnerability. If your partner has a history of infidelity, you are not imagining the risk — you are facing it. Taking action early, seeking clarity, and getting professional support can make a significant difference.
Further Reading:
Psychology Today Blog: “Once a Cheater, Always a Cheater?” (Psychology Today)
“Once a Cheater, Always a Cheater? Serial Infidelity Across Subsequent Relationships.” Archives of Sexual Behavior. (PubMed)
Further Reading On Our Blog:
