The holidays can be rough for singles and couples alike. According to dating experts, a shocking number of people tend to lie about their relationship status. On the other hand, research has also shown that infidelity spikes notably during the holidays. So what’s really happening behind the scenes during the holidays?

 

 
 
 
 
 
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 To address the single folks first. It can get a bit frustrating at the dinner table for them on December 25 when a family member or friend, whom you see once a year, asks if you are seeing someone. 

A recent Wisp study found that a surprising number of people exaggerate or lie about their relationships. The data shared by UNILAD shows that 70% of them felt “more judged and scrutinized” about their relationship status around the holidays. The study found Millennials and Gen Z were more likely to lie about their love lives than Gen X. 

As family pressure ramps up, one in three singles admits to lying. At the same time, they tuck into their turkey feast every year. 

The study also found many singles lie about having a partner to avoid tough questions. On the other hand, some go as far as making fake names and backstories for their imaginary partner. 

A dating expert at Wisp, Sylvia Linzalone, has claimed that such behavior is certainly understandable. She explained, “Christmas compresses all the usual dating pressure into one week. You’re surrounded by couples, traditions, and well-meaning relatives who see asking about your love life as harmless – but for singles, it can feel like an interrogation. Lying becomes a form of self-protection.”

 

 
 
 
 
 
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 Linzalone clarified the singles’ choice to lie. She said, “People aren’t lying because they’re ashamed – they’re lying because they’re tired of defending their life choices over roast potatoes.”

Clinical psychologist Shahn Baker Sorekli says cheating spikes during the holidays. She claimed that office parties act as a trigger for such people. 

No wonder that one Love Actually scene still strikes a chord with so many people. The moment when Emma Thompson’s character realizes that her husband was having an affair with his secretary. According to Sorkeli, so many people resonate with the scene because the experience is not uncommon. 

 She said during her podcast interview with I’ve Got News For You, “There’s definitely some evidence … which suggests that yes, people who cheat are more likely to do it at Christmas time.”

Holiday stress, increased alcohol consumption, and office parties could lead to office infidelities. But, she still puts some blame on the 2003 classic.  Studies have shown how pressure to keep up an ideal relationship image during the holidays can lead to secret betrayals – even some risky behaviors. 

A disturbing Ashley Madison poll (reported by Titan Investigations) has also shown that nearly one-third of workplace affairs start at Christmas parties. These parties create unsafe environments where alcohol lowers inhibitions and boundaries blur. 

A Buzzfeed community poll revealed that affairs sparked by office parties, often fueled by opportunity and alcohol, surprisingly lasted for years. A recent Tawkify survey showed that a good chunk of people stay in “dead” relationships just to get through the holidays. Others delay breakups owing to family pressure. 

Experts suggest setting firm boundaries at office parties and open communication with partners. They also suggest resisting performing for social media or family so as to put off some pressure on oneself.