-- There's the opinion that "it's not cheating if one is in different time zones." I definitely still consider these as cheating. -- There's the thoughts on having cyber-sex. I definitely consider this cheating. -- There's the opinion that watching porn is cheating. I definitely don't consider it to be.
If you don't want your partner to know about it because it would lead to a break up, it's probably cheating. Pretty simple.
I think that a one off 'banter' comment on the internet is fine, but I would never enter into an ongoing sexual exchange. I think that secretly watching porn would be far worse... In fact, I see all porn as insulting to a partner.
There was someone on here recently, can't remember the topic or thread, who commented that he felt oral sex with someone other than your significant other (and your SO doesn't know it), is not cheating. Oral sex would still be considered cheating, to me.
Seconded It really is not that hard. It's mostly excuses to not consider cheating for what it is. Not sincere convictions. Cheaters like to fool themselves.
As a guy who is in a long distance relationship, I have developed some innocent crushes on a few select ladies I've come across while in the relationship with my girlfriend. But I've always been clear and upfront that I have a girlfriend, and women I talk to all understand this. This way a boundary of sorts can be established. My girl already knows I watch porn, and while she can sometimes get a bit insecure about how attractive she is to me, I'm always there to make sure she understands she's kind of above all other chicks. There's a cam girl I became friends with a while ago, and she'd be among the first to say I have never approached her with sexual interest on my mind. She and I are just buds, lol. That's not to say attractive ladies don't arouse me in those appropriate ways, but I guess one of the perks of having a small dick is that I can still think with the big head even when the small head is screaming at you, LOL. OK, the last part was a joke, sort of.
this is why i live right on the time zone line. i have girlfriends across the street from each other.