The tempting use of social media and messenger apps to secretly flirt with others has been a stress test for many relationships for years.
In contrast to obvious dating apps like Tinder & Co., here you “only” open Facebook Messenger or Instagram while your partner is sitting next to you on the sofa.
But especially in the midst of the pandemic, in which pure sex affairs, flirtations at Christmas parties or in the bar, the digital escape seems more appealing than ever for unhappy lovers.
Communication scientist Richard Lemke has been researching adult behavior on the Internet for years.
He explains what digital affairs are, what the tension and danger lies in - and whether real feelings can be involved.
A conversation about escapes from unhappy partnerships and the fantasy of "what if?"