Signs of Ghosting
Ghosting is often obvious, but it can also be a gradual process.
Ghosting can also occur on social media.
It involves cutting off all social media contact with another person without explanation.
Verywell / Catherine Song
The other person may unfriend, unfollow, or even block you on all social media platforms.
They may even go so far as to deactivate or delete their social accounts to prevent all contact.
Interestingly, though, the term was actually used as far back as the 1990s.
Somepop culture writersand scholars have even used the term to describe ghostwriting in hip-hop music.
Though a new term, the act of ghosting existed well before the digital age.
The argument is that online dating has simply made it way easier to ghost people.
Why Do Some People Choose to Ghost?
Ghosting is often seen as an immature or passive-aggressive way to end a relationship.
In other instances, it may even be a form of emotional abuse.
mindset," says Seide.
Its almost like sudden loss [or] grief, especially the first time youve ever been ghosted.
You are shocked, and youre in denial, thinking things such as maybe they didnt see my text.
Then you feel anger.
Ghosting is inherently ambiguous because there is a lack of explanation for why the relationship ended.
Im not sure what happened, but I dont want to continue pursuing this.
My time is valuable and I dont want to leave this door open.
Best of luck with things.
While the ghoster may not respond, it can help provide closure.
Either way, its not doing the ghoster any favors in theirability to communicatewith others.
Alternatives to Ghosting Someone
Avoiding the easy route of ghosting someone will benefit both parties.
I usually suggest two spoons of sugar with the medicine in the middle for delivery, Meide says.
I respect your time and just wanted to be honest.
Warm regards and take care.
Best of luck with everything."
Is Ghosting Someone Ever OK?
However, there are most definitely exceptionswhen further communication can be a bad thing or even potentially unsafe.
In such cases, you do not owe that person an explanation for abruptly ending the relationship.
You may simply have a bad feeling.
Consider how ghosting might impact both parties and do your best to treat others with kindness and honesty.
If youre the person whos been ghosted, its OK to feel confused, sad, and angry.
However, if you feel threatened or deeply uncomfortable by someone, you don’t owe them anything.
Vilhauer J.When Is It OK to Ghost Someone?Psychology Today.
