Quiet Quitting in Relationships Is Now a New Dating Trend

A new trend has emerged in the world of dating: quiet quitting. This phenomenon refers to ending a relationship without explicitly stating so, but slowly withdrawing or distancing oneself from the other person.

The term “fizzling” is the gradual decrease in the effort by a person dating someone, eventually leading to a complete halt in communication.

It’s a trend that is becoming increasingly common, especially among younger generations, and it’s raising questions about communication, honesty, and respect in romantic relationships.

Where Did Quiet Quitting Come From?

The origins of quiet quitting are challenging to pinpoint. But the rise of online dating and the prevalence of social media trends have likely fueled it.

New dating trend is like ghosting — but crueler and more passive aggressive https://t.co/ebGUxcw7lG pic.twitter.com/2NVq9K71jr

— New York Post (@nypost) March 30, 2023

With so many ways to connect with others, meeting new people and starting relationships is easier than ever. However, ending them is also more accessible than ever, especially in more casual relationships.

The rise of quiet quitting can be attributed to various factors, including the prevalence of online dating and the normalization of non-committal, casual relationships.

In these situations, it can be easier to quietly distance oneself from a partner than to have a difficult conversation about ending the relationship.

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One of the reasons why quiet quitting has become so popular is that it’s seen as a less aggressive and less hurtful way to end a relationship.

Rather than having to sit down and have an awkward conversation about why things aren’t working out, one person starts to withdraw or become less available, gradually making it clear that they’re no longer interested.

Another reason quiet quitting is becoming more common is that it’s often easier to do than have a difficult conversation. Many people struggle with confrontation, and the idea of hurting someone’s feelings can be difficult to bear.

Here are two warning signs your partner may be "quiet quitting" your relationship. https://t.co/nwd22XcSiE pic.twitter.com/Z8MvK7pawE

— CNBC (@CNBC) October 13, 2022

Sometimes, people may also fear the other person’s reaction to a breakup and choose to avoid it altogether.

Moe Ari Brown, the expert on love and connection for Hinge, explained to the Mirror how emotionally damaging it can be for someone to experience a fizzling out of a relationship without any explanation.

Why do others result to “fizzling”

Brown pointed out that gradually losing interest in someone without providing any justification can lead to feelings of inadequacy, uncertainty, and self-questioning.

In addition, Brown reminds us that we need to remember that another person on the receiving end of the relationship deserves closure if the connection is no longer there.

Moreover, the lack of closure can make it harder for the person who has quietly quit to move on and find closure. They may struggle to let go or even blame themselves for the breakup without a clear explanation or understanding of why the relationship ended.

According to therapist Rhian Kivits, those who engage in fizzling exhibit significant personality flaws. Kivits stated that individuals who fizzle tend to be avoidant and selfish since they are unwilling to take responsibility or acknowledge that they have lost interest in the relationship.

Kivits notes that these individuals lack concern for how their actions impact others. While quiet quitting may seem like an easy way out, it has downsides.

For one, it can leave the other person feeling confused and hurt, wondering what went wrong and why the other person has suddenly become distant.

This lack of communication can make it difficult for the other person to move on and find closure. In addition, quiet quitting can be a form of disrespect.

By avoiding a difficult conversation, the person quitting quietly says the other person isn’t worth their time or energy. It can also make the person leaving seem immature or cowardly, as they’re unwilling to face the consequences of their actions.

Ultimately, quiet quitting reflects the changing nature of relationships today. We must think about maintaining healthy, honest, and respectful relationships. We should also remember that communication and honesty are essential to lasting, meaningful relationships.