Floodlighting is the latest toxic dating trend causing concern. Unlike love bombing, which overwhelms with affection, floodlighting involves oversharing deeply personal information early in a relationship. This tactic often creates an illusion of intimacy, making it hard for partners to distinguish genuine vulnerability from manipulation.

Why It’s Dangerous

Experts argue that floodlighting can destabilize relationships by pressuring partners to match the level of openness prematurely. This imbalance often leads to emotional burnout or feelings of being trapped.

Signs of Floodlighting

Key signs include excessive sharing of past traumas on early dates, unbalanced emotional exchanges, and a rush to define the relationship. Jessica Alderson, co-founder of So Synced, explains that floodlighting is often a way to test how much the other person can handle emotionally.

How to Respond

If you suspect you’re a victim of floodlighting, experts suggest setting clear boundaries. Being assertive about pacing emotional disclosures can help maintain a balanced relationship.

Understanding floodlighting is essential for navigating modern dating. Awareness of this trend can empower individuals to establish healthier relationship dynamics.

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