INDEFINITE LOSS IN MODERN RELATIONSHIPS: A BRIEF EVALUATION ON GHOSTING

Öz

Ghosting is a form of relationship termination characterized by one partner unilaterally cutting off communication or ignoring the other partner’s attempts to reach out. In ghosting, the victim cannot make sense of what is happening, cannot end the relationship, and tries to manage the situation with the hope of receiving a response. Therefore, ghosting has negative effects on the psychology of partners. The aim of this study is to examine ghosting behavior through the psychological characteristics of both the individuals who engage in it and those who experience it. The review was conducted by searching key terms in Turkish and English in national and international databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar. The studies reviewed show that individuals subjected to ghosting experience shock, sadness, attempts to repair the relationship and anxiety. The anxiety experienced can carry over into subsequent relationships. When examining individuals who ghost, it is observed that they employ concepts of guilt and relief, attribute behavior to their partner, exhibit egocentric tendencies, avoid conflict, and sometimes act for prosocial reasons. In conclusion, clearly identifying the characteristics of those subjected to and engaging in ghosting, investigating the motivations of perpetrators, and understanding how it affects partners are important. Ghosting should be considered not merely as a personal choice but as a multifaceted phenomenon with psychological, social, and relational dimensions. Developing healthy communication skills is thought to play a key role in reducing the negative effects of ghosting. Awareness-raising initiatives by mental health professionals are recommended in this context.

Anahtar Kelimeler

• Ghosting
• Victim of ghosting
• Perpetrator of ghosting
• Psychological effects of ghosting

Kaynakça

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