Ever wonder why men (and women) cheat on their significant others? Every relationship is different, as are the reasons for straying. However, a recent thread on Reddit explores the reasons men and women are unfaithful. Here are the themes that keep cropping up…

Instant Gratification

Many cheaters enjoy the instant gratification that comes with sleeping with a new partner whenever they want. Plus, the extra sex is nice too. However, the cheaters often come to regret their actions.

“I cheated when I was younger and the answer is simple: instant gratification,” writes one user. “I knew it was wrong but it didn't matter. My mindset was why wait to get what you want later? I can get it now AND later. I felt terrible about it and I would never do it again.”

Ego Boost/Attention

Many straying lovers say they cheat because they like attention from the opposite sex and feel good when numerous people find them attractive. After all, who doesn’t like to feel wanted? Often, cheaters stray because they felt neglected at home.

“I was attention hungry and loved every bit of positive feed back a guy would give me that my live in boyfriend at the time did not,” one Redditor writes.

Partner Withholds Sex

A lack of sex is another big reason men and women cheat. Sometimes one partner will lose interest in sex, while the other wants it every day. Other times one partner will use sex as a weapon to get what they want. While the stories on Reddit are one sided, it seems a sexless relationship can tempt folks to cheat.

They Want the Best of Both Worlds

Some cheaters are unfaithful because they want the best of single life and the best of life in a relationship. In other words, they want the excitement and thrill that comes with hooking up with new people whenever the mood strikes, but the security and stability that comes with a committed relationship.

Why do men and women cheat? The reasons are varied, but more often than not cheaters regret their actions and feel awful for hurting someone they love.

Do you think there's ever a valid reason for cheating? Sound off in the comments below.