Infatuation Rules
Infatuation Rules
Photo: Dziana Hasanbekava
“In a relationship context, breadcrumbing refers to a person who gives you just enough 'crumbs' of attention or affection to give you hope and keep you on the hook — but not enough to make you feel comfortable or assured the relationship is going well,” explains Dr.
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Read More »If a new partner shows interest but it feels like you’re getting nowhere, you could be experiencing breadcrumbing Catfishing, ghosting, love-bombing, cuffing … There’s plenty going on in the world of modern dating to keep us on our toes. But have you heard about breadcrumbing? “In a relationship context, breadcrumbing refers to a person who gives you just enough ‘crumbs’ of attention or affection to give you hope and keep you on the hook — but not enough to make you feel comfortable or assured the relationship is going well,” explains Dr. Gemma Harris, a clinical psychologist based in Bermuda. Why have I been breadcrumbed? If you’ve experienced this phenomenon, you’re not alone: Research from 2021 indicates around 30% of dating adults have been breadcrumbed in the last 12 months. But are some more susceptible than others? Harris notes that “we’re all potentially vulnerable,” but “some people might be more attracted to, and more likely to stay with, someone who is liable to breadcrumbing.” For instance, individuals with low self-esteem or high empathy levels “may be prone to normalizing breadcrumbing behavior,” she explains. Harris also reveals that this type of pressure-free relationship can appeal to those more afraid of commitment. In addition, individuals who have a dependent attachment style are at greater risk as they’re “resistant to setting boundaries,” she states, and they “may also be more likely to romanticize a relationship, and exaggerate the worth of the breadcrumbs.” Possessing these traits doesn’t mean you deserve to be strung along or treated poorly. Signs of breadcrumbing Actions can occur in person or digitally (although they’re more frequently experienced virtually) and take various forms. For example: They flirt repeatedly, but never ask you out. They message you to say hi and offer compliments, but ignore your suggestions to meet. They leave comments on your social media but don’t respond to DMs or texts.
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Read More »Why people breadcrumb There’s no one-size-fits-all explanation as to a definitive breadcrumbing meaning. However, several factors may come into play. Low self-esteem Breadcrumbing can help establish a sense of power and control — something those with low self-esteem might be lacking in other areas of their life. Leaving a trail of crumbs and seeing you coming back for more can also make them feel wanted and worthy. Insecure attachment style “Those with avoidant or disorganized attachment are prone to a form of breadcrumbing, but theirs is generally viewed as less manipulative or intentional,” Harris explains. In fact, it’s likely done as a method of self-defense. “When they deliver breadcrumbs, it is often because they are withdrawing from intimacy or intensity that has left them feeling vulnerable,” she notes. Emotional unavailability due to a mental health condition The individual may have a mental health concern, such as narcissistic personality disorder — which drives them to engage in breadcrumbing behaviors and relationship ‘games’. These tactics make those with narcissistic tendencies feel powerful and special, reveals Harris, and provides them with the attention they crave. What to do about breadcrumbing They might be small, but these crumbs can be mighty confusing and hurtful. There are steps you can take to avoid being burned. How to respond to someone breadcrumbing you Although sometimes easier said than done, you need to talk it out. This will help you establish whether the individual is “maliciously wasting your time,” says Harris, or if “this is a phase that might be managed better with some open communication.” So what’s the best way to go about it? “Try to engage them in an open dialogue, to gauge their level of insight and understanding into their behavior,” Harris recommends. “Collaborative change is more likely if they are able to recognize and own these patterns.” Still getting nowhere? It might be time to show them the door. How to avoid being breadcrumbed Getting caught up in the heady early days of a new romance often makes it tricky to notice warning signs. However, according to Harris, the following steps could help prevent you from succumbing to those crumbs: Set boundaries and stick to them.
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