Texas is No. 1 ... at Cheating

 

Late last month Assaf Cohen at Solitaire Bliss reported the results of their survey to determine which states have the highest rates of cheating. Their results were astounding. Texas had the highest cheating score, narrowly beating out Alabama, Nebraska, and California. On the other end of the scale, New Mexico, Maryland, Minnesota, and Missouri had the least cheating scores. Here are some Texas-specific results:

• 77% of Texans surveyed cheated on a diet.
• 51% have cut in line.
• 45% have cheated on something work-related.
• 40% have lied about their age.
• 28% of Texans surveyed have cheated on a partner.

Discussion

No one is claiming that the survey is scientific or representative of the population as a whole. There are no representations about the survey sample, selection bias, reporting bias, etc. So no one needs to get riled up about it.

Nevertheless, while the entire survey and its results are kind of silly, there are a couple of trends that stick out to those in the private investigation business.

First, cheating on something work-related is concerning. The greatest predictor of future outcomes is past behavior. So if we're talking about lying on their resume, stealing office supplies, fudging hours worked, or even stealing money, "cheating" at work is often a serious matter.

Second, cheating on a partner has grave consequences, the most obvious of which is divorce (when married). However, a surprising result is that many couples stay together following infidelity. Nevertheless, while research varies on the topic, generally slightly more than half (50%-55%) of couples file divorce proceedings immediately after infidelity. And the percentages skyrocket (to about 80%) for those associated with marriages with one or both partners having had an affair (or affairs) that they don't confess to the other partner. In any event, infidelity is often a crossroads in a marriage. People get honest and things get better, or they don't and the relationship ends.

Takeaways

For work-related cheating, there are solutions. Background checks are a must. They're cheap and can help you eliminate potential employees before they become problems. And if issues arise, we can help you piece together the facts of events to resolve the situation.

For infidelity, there are many reasons to hire a private investigator. First, truth matters. It matters in life and in relationships. You deserve to know the truth. Second, once facts have been established, you can make informed decisions. Your relationship may be improved or you may decide to end it. Either way, you are taking control of your life.

Shoutout

Big thanks to Michelle Homer at KHOU, who wrote a fun article that brought the survey to my attention!