Individuals committed to complete honesty makes them more accountable for their behaviors.  People don’t want to share uncomfortable or embarrassing behaviors, therefore they are more conscientious of their behaviors in the first place.

Even white lies, which are intended not to hurt a partner, are discouraged. Individuals can express the truth without intending to be hurtful or mean. In fact, not telling the truth is almost always more harmful to a relationship.

When there is infidelity in a relationship, betrayal not only unravels the loyalty vow, but disrupts the partner’s ability to assume the truth. Since betrayers are secretive and hide the truth of their infidelity, dishonesty goes hand-in-hand with infidelity. Recovering from infidelity requires the truth.

Dishonesty undercuts and erodes relationships. Successful couples are truthful.