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In today’s digital age, “ghosting” has become a widely recognized term, especially among those who actively use social media and online communication platforms. While on the surface, ghosting may seem like a minor inconvenience, being abruptly ignored by a friend or a romantic partner can lead to a lot of confusion and frustration.
Whether you have been a victim of ghosting or are guilty of ignoring someone without an explanation, it is important to understand the reasons behind this behavior and the potential negative effects of ghosting. In our article, we will explain the meaning of ghosting, delve into the origins of this term, and offer you advice on how to properly handle being ghosted.
Table of Contents
- What Is Ghosting
- Why People Ghost Others
- Who Gets Affected By Ghosting
- How to Deal With Being Ghosted
- How to Prevent Ghosting
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What Is Ghosting?
Ghosting is a term used to describe the sudden cessation of communication with a person without any prior warning or explanation. Typically, ghosting is associated with personal relationships – it is not uncommon for a person to be left without answers after a date or an argument with a friend.
The term “ghosting” was first used less than twenty years ago, in 2007, yet it gained popularity only in the mid-2010s after being widely covered in the media. It is believed that the rise of online communication and dating apps led to the spread of ghosting – people found it easier to cut ties with their acquaintances without facing them.
Why People Ghost Others
There are many reasons to justify ghosting – from the lack of interest in the relationship to the concern for your own safety. Here are a few common motivations to ghost:
The person feels like they do not have a connection with their interlocutor and decides to end the relationship.
After being unable to resolve the conflict or being subjected to toxic behavior, the person chooses to cut ties abruptly.
The individual who ghosts struggles to come up with the words to express their feelings and prefers to stop replying to messages.
Who Gets Affected By Ghosting
At first, you may think that ghosting will not have serious consequences – after all, this may be an easy way to avoid an uncomfortable conversation. However, in the long run, ghosting may negatively impact both parties.
The person who is ghosted may suffer from lowered self-esteem and constantly wonder what they did wrong to be ignored without an explanation. In addition, this behavior may affect their future – the inability to get closure may stop them from opening up to new acquaintances.
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How to Deal With Being Ghosted
Reach Out. It is possible that the person had a valid reason to ghost you – for instance, they were going through personal struggles and could not maintain their social life. Send them a message, let them know how you feel, and ask them to be honest with you.
Focus On Yourself. While being ghosted may be stressful, take care of your mental health instead of obsessing over the lack of communication. Spend time with people who support you and engage in activities you love.
Move On. If the person does not reply to your attempts to reach them, accept that the relationship is over. You may never find out their reasons to ghost you, but sometimes it is better to cut people out of your life instead of being stuck on them.
How to Prevent Ghosting
Whether you have been a victim of ghosting or guilty of this behavior, there are ways to avoid ghosting in the future: Work On Your Communication Skills. Be honest with the people in your life – if you feel like you cannot continue a friendship or a romantic relationship, let the other person know your reasons.
Build a safe environment for the people you care about – listen to them, pay attention to their
words and body language, and be there for them when they need your support.
Surround Yourself With Supportive People Sometimes, the best thing you can do for yourself
is to cut ties with individuals who negatively affect your mental health. You will feel more
comfortable opening up and being yourself if your friends are there for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does Ghosting Mean?
Ghosting is the practice of ending a personal relationship with someone by suddenly
stopping all communication without informing the other person about your decision.
When Was the Term “Ghosting” First Used?
It is believed that the term was coined in 2007, and people started using it to describe the
The behavior of their friends and partners who would suddenly disappear from their lives
without a trace.
Is Ghosting Someone Harmful?
While in some cases, ghosting may be justified – for example, when you are trying
to get away from an abusive friend – this behavior may lead to adverse consequences
for both parties, including mental health struggles.
How Common Is Ghosting?
Multiple surveys have shown that ghosting is a pretty common phenomenon – around
13% of people have been ghosted, while 11% admitted to ghosting someone they know.
What Are the Alternatives to Ghosting?
If you do not want to ghost someone, consider talking to them instead – explain
your reasons to end the relationship, so that the person does not continue to
struggle with the lack of closure.
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Rethink Ghosting for Your Peace of Mind
We hope that our guide was useful and that you learned more about the origins of ghosting
as well as its negative impact on a person who is left without an explanation of why their friend suddenly stopped talking to them. While in certain scenarios, ghosting may seem like the best course of action for your personal comfort in the long term, it is always better to talk to the person you are about to part with and let them know your reasons.
If you have been affected by ghosting or struggled with proper communication in your personal and professional life, you may want to address this issue with a mental health professional. Reach out to Treat Mental Health—our certified specialists will be able to help you! Talk to our team, book a therapy session, and work on your communication skills!
