What is micro-cheating? Therapist explains the two sides of ‘Flickering’ in relationships

If you are in a relationship, then have you ever felt that shock after noticing your partner liked a particularly “weird and inappropriate” photo on Instagram? Or maybe you’ve caught yourself lingering a second too long on a flirty exchange with a stranger, only to wonder, “Wait, did I just cross a line?” or cheat on my partner?

In the digital age, the boundaries of loyalty in a relationship feel like they’re shifting every single day. What might be unacceptable to you in a relationship might not be acceptable to others.

We’ve all heard the term “micro-cheating,” but let’s be honest: it’s often used as a catch-all for everything from innocent curiosity to actual betrayal. So, what exactly is micro-cheating and how does it affect your relationship? Read on to know more:

Recently, a Portland-based therapist Jeff Guenther (who goes y the name TherapyJeff on social media) shared a breakdown on Instagram that finally gives us some clarity about micro-cheating. He split the concept of micro-cheating into two very different categories: one that’s a genuine red flag, and one that he calls a “flicker”—which might actually be healthy for your relationship.

Let’s dive into why this distinction is such a game-changer for how we view modern love.