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Fact check: People with a higher number of sexual partners are more likely to cheat in a relationship.
1. Summary of the results
The relationship between number of sexual partners and likelihood of infidelity is significantly more complex than the original statement suggests. While there is a genetic correlation of 47% between number of sexual partners and infidelity tendencies [1], research shows that relationship characteristics are actually more reliable predictors of cheating than demographic or personality factors [2].
2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints
Several crucial pieces of context are missing from the original statement:
- Infidelity has been shown to be partially influenced by genetics - about 41% for infidelity and 38% for number of sexual partners [1]
- The primary research was conducted specifically on UK female twins, limiting its broader applicability [1]
- Previous infidelity is actually a stronger predictor - those who have cheated before are three times more likely to cheat again [3]
- Relationship dynamics play a more significant role than individual history or personality traits [2]
3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement
The original statement presents several problematic aspects:
- It suggests a direct causal relationship where research shows only correlations
- It oversimplifies a complex phenomenon that involves multiple factors including:
- Psychological needs
- Social pressures
- Relationship dynamics
- Genetic predispositions [3]
This oversimplification could potentially stigmatize individuals with more varied sexual histories while failing to address the actual complexity of relationship fidelity. The statement could be used to promote conservative sexual values or shame certain individuals, while ignoring the more significant predictors of relationship success or failure that research has identified.