In the age of streaming, where couples often cozy up for binge-watching sessions, a peculiar phenomenon has emerged: streaming infidelity, also known as “stream cheating.” This secret act entails watching episodes further in a series without your partner, unveiling plot twists while leaving them none the wiser.
A recent survey conducted by Shane Co. of over 1,000 Americans living with their partners explored this concept and revealed intriguing insights. Of those surveyed, 59% admitted to succumbing to the urge to skip ahead, but rectified it by later re-watching episodes together. In contrast, 19% openly confessed to stream cheating without revisiting the episode, while another 19% discreetly indulged in extra episodes, feigning surprise when watching with their partner.
The survey also highlighted when it’s considered acceptable to engage in stream cheating. A substantial 56% believe it’s justified when their partner isn’t as enthralled by the show, while 50% feel it’s permissible when their partner is too busy to keep up. An additional 42% found it acceptable to skip ahead if their partner falls asleep during a riveting scene.
Furthermore, the survey delved into the influence of TV genres on stream cheating behavior. Drama proved irresistible for 21% of respondents, while 20% succumbed to the charms of comedy. Reality TV also lured in 18% of stream cheaters.
On the flip side, the study unveiled that annoying TV-watching habits can irk partners. These include looking up spoilers (20%), falling asleep during shows (38%), excessive phone use (36%), and relentless questions (17%).
Survey questions, methodology and results have not been verified or endorsed by ABC News or The Walt Disney Company.