Deception is common in romantic relationships, but not everyone deceives for the same reasons.

New research sorts individuals into deception types and reveals shared motivational patterns.

Antagonistic Strategists might be rare, but they regularly deceive their partners.

The healthiest type is aligned with relationship security and satisfaction.

Romantic relationships are home to some of our most honest, truthful moments. We speak authentically, we confess, we lay it all on the table. Unfortunately, they’re also the context for some of our most devious, deceptive acts. From little omissions to egregious betrayals, romantic partners—at least many of us—know very well how to deceive.

Why People Deceive Their Romantic Partners

Deception is strategic. People try to cover up their mistakes; they try to make themselves appear in a more positive light; they hide their real feelings or thoughts and pretend their misbehaviors never happened; they try to avoid a conflict.

Some of these motives are pro-relational. Why start a fight? It’s a minor thing. The truth would probably cause more harm than good. Better to say, “I loved that concert. I can see why he’s your favorite artist,” than to spoil the night. And it benefits no one to know that you went to the restroom to spit out your partner’s disgusting pie. Nor does it make the world right to tell your partner you’re home late because you stopped by your buddy’s........

© Psychology Today