Dating today brings new complications, thanks to technology and social media turning the dating game upside down. Now, some relationship experts are pointing out a new red flag to watch for in a romantic relationship, and it’s one that’s gaining steam.

If you’ve ever felt like the person you’re dating is telling you too much about themselves too soon, you may be experiencing this latest dating trend.

The term is floodlighting. According to Brené Brown, author of “The Power of Vulnerability: Teachings of Authenticity, Connections and Courage,” floodlighting happens when someone gives too much information about themselves and their lives very quickly to try to prevent really getting vulnerable.

In a TikTok video posted by podcaster Becca Tobin, Tobin explains that floodlighting is “the opposite of vulnerability, but it presents as somebody who’s very open and vulnerable.”

Tobin continued, “When they overshare a lot right upfront, they’re floodlighting you — they’re flashing these lights into your face.”

One thing that can be bad about floodlighting is that it’s a tactic some use to quickly, and inauthentically, form a connection with a potential partner for the wrong reasons.

Jessica Alderson, co-founder of the dating app So Syncd, told Glamour that floodlighting “involves sharing a lot of personal details all at once — to test the waters, speed up intimacy or see if the other person can ‘handle’ these parts of you.”

To avoid getting floodlighted, consider it a red flag if a potential partner shares personal and detailed information too soon.

“While vulnerability is essential in building a strong relationship, there’s a time and place for different levels,” Alderson told Glamour. “By sharing too much too quickly, you may be putting yourself at risk of being exploited or taken advantage of by someone who may not have your best interests at heart.”

Source link