What Is Ghostlighting? A New Dating Trend That’s Leaving People Hurt and Confused – Explained

Written By:

Daisy Simon

Written By:

Daisy Simon

What Is Ghostlighting 1

Ever heard of ghostlighting? It’s a nasty dating trend that’s causing trust issues. First, they ghost you, then they return to gaslight you about why they did it. Read on to know more!

Dating apps are causing trust concerns with the rise of an unsettling trend. It’s a toxic combination of gaslighting and ghosting, leaving people feeling disheartened, and unsure, whilst creating a nightmarish experience.

ghostlighting

Read more here: Beyond Friendship: Queerplatonic Relationships – 6 Signs You Might Be in One!

What is Ghostlighting?

You might be familiar with ghosting and gaslighting in the dating world, but have you heard of “ghostlighting”? It’s a toxic combination of these two unfortunate phenomena.

First, there’s ghosting, where someone suddenly vanishes without a word. Then, there’s gaslighting, a form of emotional abuse aimed at making you question your sanity and trust in yourself.

In the case of ghostlighting meaning, the person either cuts off communication completely or creates distance, leaving you feeling confused. And when you seek clarity, they’ll try to make you doubt your own reality. It’s a manipulative tactic that can leave you feeling like you’re going crazy.

There can be several reasons why someone who ghosted someone else decides to resurface. In many cases, ghosting is a result of the person’s own insecurities, leading them to seek control over their relationships, be it casual or intimate.

They then reappear and deflect blame onto the other person, using gaslighting techniques to justify their own unstable behavior.

Read more here: Cookie Jarring, The Latest Dating Trend: 8 Signs You Are A Victim

How To Spot A Ghostlighter?

  1. Disappears without explanation (ghosting).
  2. Reappears after a period of silence.
  3. Creates distance in communication or routine.
  4. Avoids giving clear answers or explanations.
  5. Tries to make you doubt your feelings or reality (gaslighting).
  6. Shows signs of manipulation and control.
  7. May be jealous or resentful of your successes.
  8. Prioritize your well-being and set boundaries.

Dr. Carolyn Rubenstein, a licensed psychologist based in Florida, explains that in these instances, the person returns without taking any ownership for their ghosting actions, and instead, they gaslight the individual, causing insecurity and doubt within them. It’s a deeply manipulative and alarming level of behavior to witness.

Another motivation behind ghostlighting might be jealousy. Seeing the person they ghosted doing well and thriving without them in their social media posts – be it TikToks or Instagram.

It might lead them to regret their decision and want to dampen the other person’s happiness. It’s a misguided attempt to assert control even when it’s clearly not in their best interest.

Given that gaslighters are adept at twisting the truth, it can be incredibly challenging for the victim to receive an honest response or closure. In such situations, it’s important for the affected individuals to protect themselves by distancing themselves from the gaslighter and closing that door firmly.

10 Ways To Recover and Move On Ghostlighting Abuse

  1. Reappearance after ghosting might feel exciting, but beware.
  2. Don’t be fooled by their return; it doesn’t always mean they care.
  3. Watch out for negative or controlling comments upon their comeback.
  4. Prioritize your mental health and energy over entertaining them.
  5. Avoid heartbreak and abusive situations by setting boundaries.
  6. Their return doesn’t necessarily mean they genuinely value you.
  7. Be cautious of gaslighting or manipulation attempts.
  8. Don’t let their reappearance cloud your judgment.
  9. Remember, giving second chances should never compromise your well-being.
  10. Stay true to yourself and protect your emotional health.

To wrap it up, knowing the signs of a ghostlighter is key in today’s dating world. Spotting ghosting, gaslighting, and manipulation helps protect your mental health.

Read more here: 7 Reasons Why Even Close Friends Might Ghost Us

Stick to your instincts, set boundaries, and avoid toxic vibes. Opt for relationships built on respect, honesty, and genuine connection. You’ve got this!

ghostlighting

— Share —

Published On:

Last updated on:

, ,
, , , , , ,

— About the Author —

Daisy Simon

I enjoy reading and learning about new things in life. I found writing helpful when I began to explore about various topics on WordPress. My interests also lie with movies, lifestyle, and health.
Leave A Comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Up Next

The 5 Worst Forms Of Manipulation People Do To Each Other

The Worst Forms Of Manipulation People Do To Each Other

Manipulation is sneaky, toxic, and all too common in how people treat each other. Let’s dive into the 5 worst forms of manipulation that can mess with your mind and emotions.

KEY POINTS

The worst forms of manipulation are those that unravel our sense of self, leaving us doubting our worth.

Whether it’s gaslighting, love bombing, or guilt-tripping, the goal is always the same: Control.

Once we recognize these tactics, we can reclaim our power and ignore the mind games.

Humans are hands-down the most social creatures on the planet. We can form a

Up Next

Is Your Daughter in a Controlling Relationship? 9 Ways to Help Her Break Free

Daughter in a Controlling Relationship? Things You Can Do

Have you ever had a very strong gut feeling that your daughter might not be in a healthy relationship? Or that she is in a relationship with a controlling boyfriend? Today we are going to talk about what you can do, when you have a daughter in a controlling relationship.

Yeah, it’s a tough pill to swallow. Bossy boyfriends sneakily isolate, manipulate and dim the light in the people they date. And if your daughter is dating someone like this, then it’s understandable how tough it can be to watch that.

However, there’s always light at the end of the tunnel – as her mother, you can help her break free from her controlling boyfriend. This isn’t about swooping in like a superhero; it’s about being smart, supportive, and steady.

First, let’s start with trying to understand who a controlling boyfriend

Up Next

8 Myths About Gaslighting Exposed: What You Really Need to Know

Myths About Gaslighting Exposed: What You Really Need to Know

Gaslighting is often misunderstood, and myths about gaslighting only adds to the confusion. Understanding this and trying to break down the most common misconceptions can help us uncover the truth about this manipulative behavior.

KEY POINTS

There’s a difference between casual phrases and patterns of manipulative behavior.

Gaslighting can have serious consequences and leave emotional and psychological pain.

Recognizing gaslighters can save you a lot of emotional pain and doubt.

It’s concerning how certain psychological terms can quickly become f

Up Next

6 Phases Of A Relationship With A Narcissist: The Emotional Rollercoaster

Relationship With A Narcissist Phases Of The Toxic Cycle

Being in a relationship with a narcissist can feel like an emotional rollercoaster, with each phase presenting new challenges and realizations. These phases of a narcissistic relationship leave you questioning your self-worth. Understanding these stages can help you navigate the ups and downs of a narcissistic relationship more effectively.

KEY POINTS

Narcissists may manipulate through observation and charm, creating a false sense of bonding.

These relationships have distinct phases, often involving a gradual, potentially traumatizing end.

Understanding these phases aids in healing and setting boundaries.

Up Next

10 Red Flags of a Vindictive Mother and How to Stay Strong

Red Flags of a Vindictive Mother and How to Stay Strong

So, who exactly is a “vindictive mother”? Well, it’s not just a mom who’s a little cranky or gives you the cold shoulder once in a while. We’re talking about those mothers who holds grudges, plays mind games, and never hesitates to make your life harder. Why? Because she can.

A vindictive mother is a malicious mother, who isn’t your regular parent—she is controlling, manipulative, and, at times, straight out cruel.

Do you feel like you have to walk on eggshells around her? If you answered yes, then chances are you have vindictive narcissist mother. So today we are going to explore what the signs of a toxic mum are and what you can do to handle her.

Related:

Up Next

Feeling Exhausted? 8 Signs of an Emotionally Draining Person to Look Out For

Signs of an Emotionally Draining Person to Look Out For

Have you ever hung out with someone and have left feeling like you just ran a 5k marathon without moving an inch? If you’re nodding along, this is just one of the many signs of an emotionally draining person.

These energy vampires are really talented when it comes to mentally exhausting you, even though you didn’t do anything but have a simple conversation.

Have there been times where you have felt completely wiped after a chat or hangout? Then maybe it’s time to figure out if you’re dealing with an emotionally draining person.

Today, we are going to talk about what is an emotionally draining person, the traits of an emotionally draining person and how to deal with an emotionally draining person.

Let’s start with what is an emotionally draining

Up Next

10 Toxic Communication Patterns That Are Secretly Destroying Your Relationship

Toxic Communication Patterns That Can Destroy Your Bond

Toxic communication patterns in relationships are like sneaky little termites—hard to spot at first but causing huge damage over time. These signs of unhealthy communication can quietly creep in and, before you know it, you’re stuck in a cycle of miscommunication, frustration, and emotional burnout.

The way you speak to each other is everything in a relationship, and if things aren’t being communicated clearly, things can go downhill pretty fast. And before you know it, your relationship is over, leaving you wondering what went wrong.

Today we are going to talk about ten toxic communication patterns, and what unhealthy communication in relationships look like.

Related:

— Follow Us —