What statistics support Flora Dunn's claims about the emotional truths of being a side chick?

Side relationships rarely replace the primary partner. Infidelity research consistently shows most cheaters do not leave their main relationship for the affair partner. Some studies estimate only a minority (often cited around 10–25%) actually “trade up” and form a lasting relationship with the side person.

Emotional fallout is common for the side partner. Studies on extradyadic involvement find higher rates of anxiety, jealousy, low self-worth, and rumination for the non-primary partner, especially when there is ambiguity about the future. That matches Flora’s focus on “feelings getting involved” and the pain of hoping he’ll leave but he does not.

Confessions rarely create clean breakups. Relationship research shows that disclosure of feelings or cheating often leads to a cycle of conflict, denial, or partial reconciliation rather than a decisive ending. Flora’s line about “most relationships don’t end over confessions” tracks with that messier reality.

Attachment and loneliness drive these dynamics. Data on attachment styles and loneliness suggests people who feel chronically unseen or alone are more likely to enter unbalanced or ambiguous relationships (like being a side chick) to fill an emotional void, echoing her emphasis on understanding why you are in the situation.