The way people end relationships is evolving. While traditional ghosting involves cutting off communication completely without explanation, a newer trend known as "soft ghosting" is becoming increasingly common among Indian singles.
As per the report of mid-day, a recent survey by dating platform QuackQuack, many young adults are choosing to slowly withdraw from conversations and relationships rather than having direct breakup discussions, highlighting a shift in modern dating behaviour.
What is soft ghosting?
Soft ghosting occurs when a person gradually reduces communication instead of ending contact outright.
Common signs include
Taking longer to reply to messages
Responding with short or one-word answers
Liking messages without continuing the conversation
Avoiding plans or meetings
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Becoming emotionally distant over time
Unlike traditional ghosting, the communication doesn't stop completely, it simply fades away.
Why are people doing it?
Relationship experts say soft ghosting often stems from discomfort with confrontation.
Many individuals find it difficult to:
Deliver rejection directly
Have uncomfortable conversations
Hurt someone's feelings
As a result, some people choose a gradual withdrawal, hoping the relationship will naturally fade without requiring a formal ending.
The role of digital communication
Messaging apps and social media have transformed how relationships begin and end.
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Because communication now happens largely through texts, voice notes and online interactions, people can slowly reduce engagement without explicitly stating their intentions.
According to mid-day report, experts say digital platforms have made gradual disengagement easier than ever before.
Is soft ghosting kinder than ghosting?
Opinions remain divided.
Some people believe soft ghosting is less harsh because it allows both individuals to naturally drift apart.
Others argue it can be more confusing because it creates uncertainty about where the relationship stands.
According to mid-day reports, relationship counsellors often note that clear communication tends to be healthier than leaving someone guessing about your intentions.
Emotional impact on the person receiving it
Being soft ghosted can trigger feelings of confusion, anxiety, self-doubt, frustration. Many people spend weeks trying to interpret delayed replies or mixed signals, making it difficult to gain closure.
Per mid-day, experts say ambiguity can sometimes be more emotionally challenging than a direct rejection.
A reflection of changing dating culture
The rise of soft ghosting highlights broader changes in modern relationships.
Today's singles are navigating a dating landscape shaped by technology, busy schedules and evolving expectations around communication. While convenience has made connecting easier, it has also created new ways for relationships to fade without clear endings.
According to midday, relationship experts encourage honesty and respectful communication, arguing that direct conversations, even difficult ones, often lead to healthier outcomes for everyone involved.
FAQs:
What is soft ghosting?
Soft ghosting is when someone gradually reduces communication and engagement instead of abruptly ending contact.
How is soft ghosting different from ghosting?
Traditional ghosting involves completely cutting off communication, while soft ghosting involves slowly fading out of interactions.
