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Is It Ever Ok To Ghost Someone? Let’s Discuss

Yakobchuk Olena - stock.adobe.com - illustrative purpose only, not the actual person

Ghosting Means You Suddenly Stop Speaking To Someone

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Ghosting is a sudden and unexplained communication cutoff. You drop all forms of contact without giving that person any explanation.

It’s Getting Rejected Without An Answer

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This usually includes texting, phone calls, and blocking on all social media, email, and other means of communication. Ghosting is a rejection without closure.

This can create severe anxiety for the person being ghosted since they get no explanation.

Is It Ever Ok To Ghost Someone?

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So, is it ever okay to ghost someone? While I wouldn’t say I like the idea of ghosting, it is okay to ghost someone under specific circumstances. Now, let me explain.

Lack Of Communication Hurts

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I’m not too fond of ghosting because the lack of communication hurts both parties. The person being ghosted is offered no insight into what they did wrong to make you feel like you needed to ghost them. They are offered no chance to learn from the experience moving forward.

Rejection Without An Explanation Is Tough

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It’s similar to being rejected from a prospective job application without reason. Were you not the right fit for the job? Did you lack a crucial piece of experience they were looking for?

Did they not feel you would be a good fit after the interview? You don’t know because they offered no insight. They just rejected you without any explanation.

You Should, In General, Treat Someone How You Want To Be Treated

Yakobchuk Olena – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purpose only, not the actual person

For the person being ghosted, there is an argument that can be made that when you choose to ghost someone, you are devaluing yourself as a person.

When you cut off contact with someone without any explanation, in a way, you are saying to yourself, “It’s okay. They will forget me in a week.”

But There Are Three Valid Reasons For Ghosting Someone

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Regardless, I am not a fan of ghosting because I believe in the old saying, “Treat others as you want to be treated.” I don’t particularly appreciate being ghosted, so unless necessary, I will give them a reason before I do it. Now, let’s talk about when it is okay to ghost someone.

A Disrespect Of Boundaries

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They constantly push you for more time without understanding you have a life to live that does not always include them.

It is your job to protect your space and establish firm boundaries. If they won’t listen, then ghosting is the right call.

They Are Emotionally Manipulative

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Any time you try to set boundaries or communicate your desires, they twist the narrative and turn your words against you. Manipulators cannot be reasoned with, so ghosting is likely the best way.

They Fail To Understand “No”

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Anytime you are firm and direct, and they do not respect your “No,” ghost them. You did your part. Communication takes two.

Ghosting is more than acceptable anytime they refuse to respect your boundaries, refuse to communicate respectfully, or if your safety is at risk (physical, mental, or emotional).

It’s Alright To Ghost Someone When You Feel You Have No Other Choice

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If they behave in a way that makes communicating directly tricky, they leave you no choice. So, while I may not be a fan of ghosting someone if it can be avoided, it is okay to ghost someone when you feel you need to.