What is why do cheaters downgrade?

It's important to note that the term "downgrade" is subjective and can have different meanings depending on the context. When referring to cheaters in relationships, "downgrading" typically implies choosing a new partner who is perceived as less desirable or of lower status than their previous partner or even their original partner. Here's why that might happen:

• Reduced Commitment and Effort: Cheating often stems from a desire for something new and exciting, or an avoidance of issues in the primary relationship. A cheater may not want to invest the same level of emotional effort or resources in a new relationship, leading them to choose someone who requires less commitment. This relates to the concept of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/commitment%20avoidance">commitment avoidance</a>.

• Lowered Expectations: After cheating, a person's standards or expectations might shift. They may realize the initial allure of the affair fades quickly or that they aren't seeking a long-term, serious relationship. They then might engage in further affairs with people of less importance, relating to the concept of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/relationship%20expectations">relationship expectations</a>.

• Convenience and Opportunity: Sometimes, the choice of a new partner isn't about desirability but about accessibility and opportunity. A cheater might settle for someone who is readily available or in close proximity, even if they aren't perceived as the "ideal" partner. This is connected to the idea of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/opportunistic%20behavior">opportunistic behavior</a>.

• Guilt and Self-Sabotage: The guilt and shame associated with cheating can manifest in self-destructive behaviors. A cheater might subconsciously choose a partner they perceive as less worthy to punish themselves or sabotage their chances of happiness. This is linked to the idea of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/self-sabotaging%20behavior">self-sabotaging behavior</a>.

• Fear of Intimacy: Cheating can be a way to avoid genuine intimacy and vulnerability. A cheater might choose partners who are less likely to demand emotional closeness or commitment, regardless of their perceived status. This is an expression of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/fear%20of%20intimacy">fear of intimacy</a>.

• Rebound Effect: Sometimes, after a main relationship ends, the cheater will quickly latch on to someone new, in an effort to avoid being alone. In such a case, <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/rebound%20relationships">rebound relationships</a> often involve lowered standards.