Is Monogamy Realistic?

Is it safe to say that everyone will cheat at some point in a relationship.  Especially in relationships that have lasted past 3 years. Statics show that the longer the relationship- the higher the likelihood that one or both partners will cheat.  So is monogamy really realistic?

First lets define what monogamy is.  Monogamy is a form of relationship in which an individual has only one partner during their lifetime or at any one time. There are different forms of monogamy. For instance there is social monogamy which refers to two partners living together, having sex with each other, and cooperating in acquiring basic resources such as shelter, food, and money. There is also sexual monogamy which refers to two partners remaining sexually exclusive with each other and having no outside sex partners. The question still remains....is this realistic?  With all the open relationships, casual partners, friends with benefits, and swingers...... is anyone practicing monogamy anymore? Some will even argue that people don't even marry for monogamy anymore but rather for companionship, security, and to start a family. For many, that does not mean that monogamy has to be a part of that equation. Studies and statics have shown that infidelity in relationships is as high 60 percent for women and 75 percent for men. Yes, despite popular belief, women resist monogamy just as much as men.
Here are some factors that contribute to monogamy or the lack thereof......

• Relationship Satisfaction- The more satisfied two people are in a relationship, the more likely both partners will be monogamous. Someone who is truly happy with their partner will less likely take a chance of stepping out and risk potentially losing that person in their life. They will feel its not worth it and will continue to be faithful for the sake of the relationship.
  
• Religious Beliefs- Religion is a factor in regards to the influence of sexual attitudes and behaviors, therefore couples who share religious beliefs in a higher power and base their relationship upon influences of their faith have a greater chance to have a monogamous relationship.
• Cultural Factors- There is a great influence on monogamy when it comes to cultural aspects. There are some cultures that view monogamy as the way it should be therefore one tends to try to emulate this practice in their relationship. There are also some cultures that believe the opposite. As an individual, no matter what you think or feel, you tend to be influenced by the culture in which you are raised.
• And speaking of how you are raised, Your Upbringing has a lot to do with how you view monogamy. Did you see a different man coming out your mothers bedroom every week. Or does your father have several kids outside your immediate family.  What you see growing up influences what you do. If you didn't see your parents/family members or those close to you taking relationships seriously, the less likely you are to take it serious too.
• Social Media- I'm a high believer that social media (as well as the internet as a whole) has an influence on monogamy. Yes, I agree that its an individual persons choice to step out.... but I also agree that with all the sex via social media.... its kinda easy to be influenced when your inbox is full of messages from people wanting you and waiting for you to step out....... Oh and lets not forget the direct messages, sex hook up sites, porn site where you can "click here to have sex with someone in your area". Its all too easy and all it takes is an fight between you and your significant other...... A logon onto the internet then.... viola! There goes monogamy out the door. It could happen.....

Just know there are always exceptions.. Like for instance, there are people who are in great relationships and love their partner- yet they tend to step out from time to time. A great relationship does not guarantee monogamy... Marriage does not guarantee monogamy..... The only thing that guarantees monogamy is two people who both want the same thing and are not influenced by outside partners.
It doesn't matter if monogamy is realistic or not.....All that matters is if it is realistic with you.
So what do you think? What are some other factors that influence monogamy? Comment & Share!!