Somewhat like having a “backup plan” is now used as a professional concept; after all, we all keep getting these jobs. And in today’s fast moving world of work everything needs being done at once; as a business, that same idea has been applied to the dating and relationship business as well. Psychologists refer to it as a phenomenon of “Monkey Branching” and for now many aspects of such relationships go un-mentioned.
Monkey Branching: What is monkey branching?
It’s just a name for monkeys that relate to they move on from there as they branch to another branch until they feel comfortable sticking on to one branch. In relationships, that means a person can’t entirely let go of the current partner, but is also more likely to develop a relationship inside to be a bit lonely and at the same time to try something new.
In contrast to infidelity itself as it usually happens with physical cheating, emotional infidelity, that is often a more emotional betrayal. The person gradually invests in somebody else while maintaining a relationship. Once they are happy with the new one, they cut and run.
In any case, this type of approach breaks trust that the other person may have been using (and emotionally damaged) with his/her partner to a very high degree, and often so much more than a conventional breakup.
Why do people engage in monkey branching like humans do?
- Fear of being alone: Many people may feel lonely, and would rather have someone with whom he/she at all times instead of to keep an emotional isolation.
- Emotional dependency: People do not use a good relationship (and do not do so without others’ support). They seek from many sources and need a lot of support.
- Lack of commitment: Staying to one person can feel lonely in place (for one person only) and they have an alternate plan at hand.
In some places in India, dating and marriage are heavily promoted in society, it becomes very pressing for people to find the “right” partner quickly. We can expect as soon as things don’t work out, they could start looking at alternate ways to help without ending the relationship” she continued.
Signs of Monkey Branching in a Relationship
Although it’s often so difficult to detect, this is a pattern where some behavioral changes can point out:
My partner suddenly is emotionally distant and less communicative. Her mind goes elsewhere, they don’t talk about the future more than marriage and commitment stuff. They appear to shy away from conflict resolution and appear indifferent to them. More secrecy around their phone conversations and social media usage.
Why It’s Harmful
Monkey Branching isn't only about moving on but that it’s dishonestly. It erodes trust, causes emotional chaos and it leaves lasting psychological scars, even if the partner doesn’t know.
Healthy relationships are built on honesty and communication, and mutual respect. Someone’s unhappy, and if such is the case the point should be open and respectful and the relationship be over.
What You Should Do
If such signs are noticed, do not make decisions based on them - but don’t dismiss them. Have an open and honest conversation with your partner. Clearness is better than speculation and doubt.
In love trust is important but awareness is as important as trust! By noting these trends and coming forward and speaking up about them early on you would protect and be able to do better in a relationship, he said.
