Does He Cheat? is a depressing little handbook. A mostly honest look into the habits of cheaters, the book describes each sign of cheating, followed by an explanation by a confessed cheater and a word of advice from the authors, Sterling Anderson and Stephanie Dart. The interviewed cheaters are men from various walks of life that have divorced, separated, or remained married.
Much of the book’s pages simply point out the obvious. Strip clubs, pornography, and a cheating father figure are not surprisingly common traits of a cheater. There are also more novel examples given, like going into the office early instead of staying late, keeping cocaine in his car, and an excessive golf habit. The authors weren’t seeking to unearth clues the slyest of unfaithful partners leave behind, but rather to provide a wake-up call to women who are too-easily deceived.
In addition to pointing out blatant signs of infidelity, Does He Cheat? also pokes holes through many excuses men are given in our day. Although men are protective and secretive with their multimedia devices, it’s noted that “electronics are not proprietary in a secure, committed relationship.” We’re also given the truth that ogling is not acceptable, and that the cultural message of women as toys is a dangerous lie. “Some cultures encourage extramarital affairs,” the authors harp, “But you ask any woman in those cultures, and she will tell you it’s a lie — it only comes from the men.” The “bro code” is diminished for lacking this sentiment: “…it takes a real man to be loyal, honest, and loving toward your wife, girlfriend, or partner.” These are all needed reminders for a society bent on devaluing women, commitment, and the marriage covenant.
There are very interesting glimpses into the minds of adulterers throughout. It’s interesting, but not quite surprising that cheaters justify their behavior. (“My wife just never pays attention to details. It makes me feel like she wants me to cheat.”) The “cheat” is less about the partner and more about the prohibited act (as in the divorcé whose ex became his new mistress). The once a cheater, always a cheater idea holds up anecdotally. It also comes as no surprise that the other woman often sounds pretty repugnant rather than exotic. And through pages of sad stories, the most irritating trait is the selfishness of the cheater. “A four dollar receipt from the local convenience store almost cost me hundreds of thousands in divorce fees,” said one interviewee, more concerned with his legal and financial obligations than his marital bond.
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