Love Never Lies: Netflix's reality show stirs debate on infidelity and its societal impact

In "Love Never Lies", six couples take part. They move into a luxury mansion where their relationships are significantly tested – they spend time apart while interacting with attractive singles. The selection of these individuals isn't accidental – they are chosen to resemble the participant's partners in looks or personality.

The participants must answer a variety of questions about their relationships throughout the show. The answers are then verified by the Eye Detector system. If a participant is caught lying, the entire group loses money. The couple that proves to be the most honest with one another wins.

The producers purposefully chose participants with difficult past experiences or who were going through troubled periods in their relationships. One such participant, 21-year-old Sandra, had forgiven her boyfriend, Bill, for cheating with six different people. They explained their decision to join the show as a way to work through past issues. Meanwhile, the 20-year-old Bill goes on to commit another act of infidelity while on camera.

On the flip side, Amanda and Kornel have been together for nine years and have been engaged for two. Kornel, 28, worked abroad, which created many difficulties for their relationship. In the show's preview, the couple explained their participation as a desire to be sure of their feelings and future plans. Their bond is severely tested during the show when Amanda cheats with a man she'd only met a couple of days prior while on camera.

The explosive and emotional conclusion of Netflix's show has stirred significant emotions among viewers. Social media erupted with a mix of advice and comments. Psychologist and sexologist Amanda Staniszewska-Celer highlights the potential influence of reality shows, which focus on intimate relationships, drama, and infidelity, on viewers' perceptions of faithfulness and trust in relationships. "Consistent exposure to infidelity-related narratives may lead to its normalisation, making it seem more commonplace or acceptable," she explains.

Such shows can also reinforce stereotypes about relationships and infidelity, and fuel jealousy and distrust. Viewers already doubting their partner's loyalty might feel their concerns amplified after viewing a show focused on infidelity and secrets. On the other hand, people who previously had no reasons to worry might begin to doubt their partners, interpreting innocent behaviors as potential signs of unfaithfulness, explains Amanda.