Introduction to Birdboxing and Modern Dating Trends
Dating in the modern era has become increasingly complex, with technology playing a significant role in shaping our relationships. Among the many dating trends that have emerged, birdboxing stands out as a particularly intriguing phenomenon. This concept, inspired by the Netflix movie Bird Box, refers to the tendency of individuals to overlook the flaws and red flags in their partners, often to the point of blindness.
Understanding Birdboxing
Birdboxing is essentially about being oblivious to the negative aspects of a relationship. Much like the film where characters navigate a post-apocalyptic world blindfolded, individuals in this situation often ‘wear a blindfold’ to the shortcomings of their partner. This trend is often seen during the early stages of a relationship when the rush of emotions and infatuation can cloud judgment.
Ghosting: The Original Modern Dating Trend
Ghosting is one of the earliest and most prevalent modern dating trends. It involves someone suddenly ceasing all communication without explanation, leaving the other person confused and seeking closure. This behavior is often associated with the rise of dating apps and social media, making it easier for people to disappear.
Breadcrumbing: An Ongoing Tease
Breadcrumbing is another common trend where an individual sends occasional messages or hints at a potential relationship without any intention of following through. This behavior is likened to leaving breadcrumbs for someone to follow, but the trail leads nowhere.
Orbiting: The Passive Ghost
Orbiting is a form of ghosting but with a twist. An orbiter continues to engage with someone’s social media content, watching their stories or liking their posts, even if they avoid direct communication. It’s a way of maintaining a connection without committing to actual interaction.
Curving: The Art of Rejection
Curving is a more recent trend where someone lets down another person gently, often by responding late to messages or using work as an excuse. This approach is seen as a softer version of ghosting but still leaves the other party hopeful and confused.
Kittenfishing: A Milder Deception
Kittenfishing involves portraying oneself as more attractive or interesting online, often through outdated or heavily edited photos. Unlike catfishing, which involves creating a completely fake identity, kittenfishing is more about presenting the best version of oneself.
Pocketing: The Hidden Relationship
Pocketing occurs when someone keeps their relationship private, avoiding introducing their partner to friends or family. This can be a sign of low commitment or lack of confidence in the relationship.
Instagrandstanding: Attention-Seeking Behavior
Instagrandstanding is when someone creates an Instagram presence with the intent of attracting a specific person. This involves posting pictures or stories that are designed to catch the attention of that individual.
Shaveducking: Overemphasis on Physical Appearance
Shaveducking is a trend where someone worries they are only attracted to someone because of their physical features, such as a beard. This raises questions about the nature of attraction and whether it is superficial or genuine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is Birdboxing in Dating?
A: Birdboxing is a dating trend where a person is oblivious to the flaws or shortcomings of their partner, similar to navigating the world blindfolded.
Q: What is Ghosting?
A: Ghosting is when someone suddenly stops all communication with a partner without explanation or warning.
Q: What is Breadcrumbing?
A: Breadcrumbing involves sending occasional messages or hints at a relationship without any true intention of following through.
Q: Is Curving a Kind of Ghosting?
A: While curving does involve letting someone down, it is done in a more gentle manner than ghosting, often by responding late to messages.
Q: How Does Kittenfishing Differ from Catfishing?
A: Kittenfishing involves presenting a more attractive version of oneself online, whereas catfishing involves creating a completely fake identity.
References
- https://www.telegraph.co.uk/women/life/bird-boxing-latest-dating-trend-need-know/
- https://www.theswaddle.com/ghosting-orbiting-modern-dating-trends
- https://www.the-independent.com/life-style/love-sex/dating-trends-2019-terms-definitions-ghosting-orbiting-bird-boxing-millenial-a8767456.html
- https://www.capitalfm.co.ke/lifestyle/2019/03/11/millennial-dating-are-you-a-sneator-zombie-or-in-a-birdbox-relationship/




