“USA Today” just did a big story on the term “GHOSTLIGHTING.” They say it’s the newest toxic dating trend. But it’s not actually new.
People have been using it online since at least 2017. It also went viral in 2023. But if you’ve never heard of it, you’re not alone.
It’s a mash-up of “ghosting” and “gaslighting.” It’s when you ghost someone and stop responding, get called out for it, then act like it didn’t happen, or like the person’s crazy.
For example, you might claim you were just really busy with work. Or maybe you ghost them, randomly slide back into their DMs later, and act like it was no big deal. It’s mostly a dating thing, but friends and family can do it too.
“USA Today” talked to a dating expert, who said that if someone ghostlights you, DON’T let it slide or try to smooth it over.
“If someone resurfaces after disappearing, name it calmly. ‘When you stopped responding, I took that as a lack of interest and a lack of communication.’ Then pause and see how they handle it.”
If they downplay it or act like you’re nuts, they’re not worth your time.
