Are All Narcissists Cheaters?

If you’ve ever been in a relationship with a narcissist, you know what an emotional rollercoaster it can be. The highs can be intoxicating, and the lows can be devastating. For most people, the instability of the relationship leads them to wonder:

Do all narcissists cheat?

Let’s take a closer look at what research tells us about narcissism and cheating.

Are Narcissists More Likely to Cheat?

There’s no doubt that narcissists are more likely to cheat. Many studies have found a strong correlation between narcissistic traits and infidelity.

A study of more than 120 newlywed couples found that spouses who had higher narcissistic traits when it came to sex (such as entitlement and sexual exploitation) were significantly more likely to have an affair. Researchers found that they were 9 times more likely to cheat. The study, which lasted over the course of several years, found that it didn’t make a difference how satisfied the people with narcissistic traits were in their relationship.

Other research found that narcissistic husbands who lacked sexual empathy were significantly more likely to cheat on their wives. Sexual entitlement and grandiose sense of sexual skill were also two narcissistic traits linked to infidelity (among both genders).

Another large study found that narcissism was strongly associated with having a past history of cheating. The link was strongest when narcissism was combined with two other factors: psychopathy and Machiavellianism.

But Do All Narcissists Cheat?

While narcissists are more likely to cheat, they don’t all cheat. There is a statistical correlation between people with narcissistic traits and infidelity, but multiple studies have found that narcissism does not correlate to cheating 100% of the time.

While narcissists may be more likely to have an affair, cheating isn’t guaranteed or inevitable.

Research has also found that not all narcissistic traits are linked to having an affair. Males with grandiose narcissism, for example, have not been consistently linked to an increased risk of cheating. While some studies have found a link, others have found that it’s not universal.

It may surprise you, but in some cases, narcissism is actually a reason not to cheat. A narcissist who takes pride in their reputation, for example, is less likely to have an affair. They would rather maintain the image of being the perfect family man or husband than risk their reputation by having an affair.

The Bottom Line

Do all narcissists cheat? No, but the risk is certainly higher. Low sexual empathy, sexual entitlement, exploitation, and a grandiose sense of sexual skill are all factors that can be linked to higher instances of cheating.

That being said, no two narcissists are the same, and no two relationships are the same. Some narcissists never cheat because it doesn’t serve their self-image and reputation.

Regardless of loyalty, it’s important to consider whether you’re happy in the relationship. If things feel shaky or unstable, or if you’re not being treated well, there are many other reasons to consider leaving. At the end of the day, you deserve a healthy, happy relationship with someone who doesn’t make you question their loyalty.

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This post was previously published on medium.com.