Trust is a crucial component of any healthy relationship. It’s what allows us to feel safe and secure with our partner. But what happens when that trust is shattered by an affair, and the truth is slowly revealed over time? This is known as trickled disclosure, and it can have a devastating impact on a relationship. In this article, we’ll explore what trickled disclosure is, the emotional impact it has on both partners, and how to move forward if you’ve experienced it in your relationship.
What is Trickled Disclosure?
Trickled disclosure is a process in which one partner slowly reveals the truth about an affair to the other partner over a period of time, rather than disclosing the whole truth all at once. For example, the cheating partner may initially confess to kissing someone else, but then later reveal that they also had sex with that person. This type of disclosure can happen intentionally or unintentionally, and it often leaves the betrayed partner feeling confused, hurt, and betrayed.
The Emotional Impact of Trickled Disclosure
Trickled disclosure can prevent the betrayed partner from fully processing the betrayal and working towards healing. Instead of being able to come to terms with what happened, they are left in a constant state of uncertainty and fear of what else might be revealed. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Trickled disclosure can also have severe consequences for the cheating partner, both in terms of their emotional well-being and their chances of reconciling with their partner.
The Dangers of Trickled Disclosure
Trickled disclosure can have some dangerous consequences for both partners. For the betrayed partner, it can lead to a loss of trust in their partner, and in some cases, can cause them to question their own sense of reality. It can also make it difficult for them to move forward and heal from the infidelity.
Trickled disclosure can make it difficult for the cheating partner to build trust with their partner. Each time they reveal more information, their partner may feel that they have been lied to or deceived. This can make it difficult for the cheating partner to convince their partner that they are committed to being honest and transparent in the future.
For the cheating partner, it can prolong their own feelings of guilt and shame, and make it harder for them to take responsibility for their actions.
Moving Forward After Trickled Disclosure
Reaching full disclosure after trickled disclosure can be a difficult and emotional process. Here are some steps that may help:
Acknowledge the harm
The cheating partner must first recognize the harm that their trickled disclosure has caused. It is important to understand that trickled disclosure is a form of emotional abuse and can cause significant harm to the betrayed partner.
Take responsibility
The cheating partner should take full responsibility for their actions and the harm they have caused. This means accepting that the hurt caused by trickled disclosure was not the betrayed partner’s fault, but a direct result of the cheating partner’s actions.
Commit to full disclosure
The cheating partner should commit to full and honest disclosure, regardless of the consequences. This means disclosing all the details of the affair, including how it started, how long it lasted, and what was said and done during the affair.
Seek professional help
Both partners should consider seeking the help of a professional therapist who specializes in infidelity and affair recovery. A therapist can help guide you through the disclosure process and provide support as you work together to rebuild trust and intimacy in your relationship.
Conclusion
Trickled disclosure can be a painful and damaging process for both partners. It can lead to a loss of trust, feelings of betrayal, and emotional trauma. However, with the right support and guidance, it’s possible to rebuild trust and intimacy, and to create a stronger, more resilient relationship.
