WHAT does the dating term "ghosting" mean and how does it fit into modern dating?

It's a controversial tactic but it's starting to become more common and it came to attention again when Sherif on Love Island 2019 revealed he had used the move himself - here's the lowdown.

3 Ghosting is a term used in dating which is becoming more and more common - here's what we know Credit: Getty Images

What is ghosting and what does it mean when someone 'ghosts' you?

Ghosting is an expression used in dating terms and it's when someone suddenly cuts all ties and communication with the person they've been seeing.

The theory behind ghosting is that the person who is being ignored will just 'get the hint' and realise their partner is not interested in dating anymore so the subject should be left.

Anyone can be a ghoster, it's not specific to either gender, but people sometimes find the behaviour is related to a person's maturity and communication skills.

Many believe that ghosting is actually better for the person they're ignoring because they aren't hurting their feelings by telling them they don't want to date anymore.

But often ghosting just leaves the ghostee feeling confused and upset about the subject.

3 The theory behind ghosting is fairly simple, it's when you ignore someone you've been on a date with because you're not interested instead of telling them directly Credit: Getty Images

Where did the dating term come from?

It's true that the theory of ignoring someone has been around for a long time but the term ghosting was coined from the online dating culture we have today.

Since 2012, dating apps like Tinder, Bumble, Elite Singles and Happn have become a lot more popular and they all give the impression that there is always someone else.

So the idea of ghosting seems appealing because there is always someone else to talk to or date.

3 As online dating becomes more and more common people know they have someone else just around the corner so ghosting doesn't seem like an issue Credit: Getty Images

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How does it affect people?

Ghosting can actually have quite a serious impact on a person's mental health, claims PsychologyToday.com.

The social rejection apparently can activate the same pain in the brain as physical pain, fortunately this pain can be treated with medication but the psychological distress can be more difficult to heal.

Mental health professionals argue that the silent treatment is a form of emotional cruelty as it leaves you powerless to the situation and you're unable to find out any answers.

So, next time you're thinking of ghosting anyone, think carefully about what you're doing.