Is it ok to keep secrets from your significant other?

Guess it depends what it is. If one of my children or if a good friend asked me to keep a confidence then I would.

by Tracie Louise

Like all things, it all depends on the circumstances.

by Bryony Harrison

This all depends what type of secret.
If it is a deceiving one, definitely NO, however if someone tell you something in confidence, then I think it is OK.

I also think it is OK to tell "little white lies" as sometimes these are harmless and just make life a bit easier, so as long as you are not deceiving someone big time, I think it is sometimes OK.

by Finy

MMm as adults we like to make our own choices about what we can and can't handle. Withholding information from your partner because you think they can't cope with the information is really quite judgmental and controlling. After all who says you have all the answers? As far as keeping the peace perhaps learning how to deal with potential conflict in a healthy way may be a far better use of your time? The best secret to keep from your partner is what you have bought for their birthday present.I think the old adage of treating others the way you would like to be treated is a pretty good rule of thumb. That doesn't mean that you have to reveal everything about yourself, however if your partners perspective, attitude or opinion would change if they had access to this information then in the interests of them living an informed and empowered life than I would say that it is best to come clean.

by Shelley Murphy

It depends on what type of secret it is - if it's one on the grounds of present-giving or something else that they'll find out later, then that's fine. But don't keep big things away from them, especially if you know you can trust them enough.

by Xarah

In my experience, no. Being honest 100% of the time is key to a happy relationship. No matter the issue, however 'big' or small you might find it, be open and then at least you'll have a clear conscience.

by Jamie0liversgirl

I am of that opinion, but is having a clear conscience worth hurting your SO? A girlfriend of mine is struggling with feelings for an old flame and doesn't know whether she should tell her partner or not. It's a sticky situation. I suggested she be honest, but she is afraid of hurting him. What would you suggest to her?

Upon my word it is. One the one hand, people tell you to keep a bit of mystery in your marriage and then on the other hand be totally truthful about everything.
No, it is quite OK to keep secrets from your partner. He might never be intelligent enough to share a real secret with.

by fran.