What is an Emotional Affair?

[StayClose]

What exactly is the definition of an emotional affair? What is an EA and what what is just innocent socializing? How and why does innocent socializing turn into an EA?

[FireandIce]

Well I'm not expert but IMO an EA is when a husband or wife shares intimate details about them and their life with another person, spend time together when they should be spending time with their spouse and just letting this other person take over the role of spouse even though it might not be for sex.

[grapeape]

I believe an EA is when you are emotionally invested in someone other than your spouse and at the expense or detriment of your spouse. For example, if you are so involved in your own thoughts of this "soulmate" or your semi-regular contact that it creates distance or friction between you and your spouse, than it definitely is an EA. You're not a little girl anymore. Real feelings are in play and a real relationship is at risk. Make a decision and stick with it. If you decide to invest in your current spouse than there cannot be anymore contact of any kind with this other person. That was memories are for. Remember them fondly from time to time and then get yourself back in reality and focus on what you have. If you fell for your husband once than he must be special. Nurture that and allow it to grow b/c you will be surprised where it will take you. Whatever you do, don't allow it to hold your life hostage. Move on !

[silktricks]

THere are many opinions of what constitutes an EA. Mine is: any non-sexual relationship that includes talk of emotions between each other that should belong to the primary relationship. I would also include any non-sexual relationship that is hidden from the SO.

[IfWishesWereHorses]

[COLOR=#0000ff]Quiz - Are You in an Emotional Affair?[/COLOR]

 

 

This is the link to and EA quiz. If you answer yes to an more than 3 then you are probably having an EA.