Recent research led by the University of Brighton, in collaboration with the University of Coimbra in Portugal, sheds new light on the psychological ramifications of prevalent dating practices such as ghosting, gaslighting, and coercive control. As one of the pioneering studies in this realm, it surveyed 544 adults aged 18 to 40 in the UK, demonstrating a clear correlation between these behaviours and adverse mental health outcomes, including depression and increased paranoia.

The findings indicate that both ghosting and coercive control significantly contribute to rising paranoia levels among individuals, while gaslighting is notably linked to symptoms of depression. Importantly, this relationship persisted even when controlling for variables like age, income, and distinct personality traits, such as rejection sensitivity or intolerance of uncertainty. This highlights the substantial emotional toll these experiences can exact on individuals, particularly in a landscape shaped heavily by digital interaction.

Professor Rusi Jaspal, co-author and pro-vice-chancellor for research and knowledge exchange at the University of Brighton, commented on the implications of the study, stating, “The digital age has provided enormous opportunity for social connections but also comes with some risks.” He elaborated that as social media usage and dating platforms proliferate, so too does the risk of individuals encountering harmful behaviours that can negatively influence their mental health.

Dr Barbara Lopes, also a co-author of the study, noted the ubiquity of these behaviours and their largely overlooked effects on mental well-being. "Ghosting, gaslighting, and coercive control are very common relationship behaviours, but their association with mental health is poorly understood,” she remarked. By elucidating these connections, the research aims to fuel discussions about preventative measures and psychological support for those impacted by such detrimental relational dynamics.

In a broader context, the prevalence of ghosting among young adults is staggering, with reports suggesting that between 50% to 65% of this demographic has either ghosted someone or been ghosted themselves. The emotional fallout from these experiences can be severe, leading to confusion, self-blame, and a profound sense of abandonment, which can extend well beyond the immediate impact. Moreover, young people with a high need for closure experience heightened dissatisfaction and distress when ghosted, revealing a complex interplay between individual emotional needs and the effects of abrupt relational endings.

This study underscores the necessity for increased awareness surrounding the emotional consequences of modern relationship behaviours and advocates for the integration of psychological support, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), to help individuals navigate the distress stemming from ghosting and similar experiences. The call for enhanced relationship education is particularly pressing, as traditional frameworks often overlook the nuances of contemporary dating landscapes that heavily involve digital communication.

As the University of Brighton continues its mission to address contemporary mental health challenges through impactful research, this study stands as a testament to the urgent need for strategies that effectively respond to the evolving realities of romantic relationships. By investigating the psychological implications of ghosting and other damaging behaviours, the research provides a foundation for developing innovative solutions that cater to the emotional well-being of individuals in these often tumultuous interactions.

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Source: Noah Wire Services