This can prove useful or troubling, depending on the circumstances.
But when is it appropriate, especially when it comes to our love interests or partners?
The question is, what impact can this have on your relationship?
Aleksandr Zubkov / Getty Images
When partners begin to move behind the others back, this can spell trouble for the relationship.
If insecurities or challenges arise, this can leave room to consider snooping.
Partners should have open discussions about these feelings for a healthy relationship to thrive.
Loved ones should speak honestly about their emotions and doubts.
This will not only strengthen the relationship but can improve honest communication between partners.
Why Is It So Tempting to Snoop?
To answer this question, its necessary to break down the process of spying on your partner.
There might be a lack of trust
Trust is a non-negotiable element for relationships to thrive.
A study of young couples found that trust in relationships not only encouragedfaithfulnessandvulnerabilityit also promotedemotional intimacy.
Changing behaviors on their front can set off warning signs that spark suspicion.
On one hand, there is the chance you are overthinking the possible change in behavior.
Because cheating allegations can be dicey, keeping such thoughts inside can seem like the best choice.
While these are valid, insecurity, doubt, and jealousy fan the flames that encourage spying in relationships.
These are not traits of ahealthy relationship.
The same goes when looking to make sense of a growing distance from your loved one, etc.
Is It Ever OK to Snoop on Your Partner?
Snooping into your partners private affairs is a direct breach of their privacy.
It also doesnt help that snooping may produce one of three outcomes.
First, nothing is found, leaving you saddled with the guilt of invading your partners privacy.
Second, something is discovered through improper means.
This will raise questions about how you learned that information.
Third, your partner finds out that you snooped and they feel that their privacy has been violated.
Its important to ask whether your significant others actions warrant this breach of trust.
In a judgment-free setting, take a look at the environment that encouraged doubt and distrust.
To avoid a repeat, agree to proper steps to take if you notice unhealthy behaviors flare up again.
Partners may also visit arelationship therapistto help with any issues in the relationship.
Pew Research Center.Dating and Relationships in the Digital Age.
2014;16(9):1009-1022. doi:10.1080/13691058.2014.921837
