At this point, we’ve all heard the phrase loving bombing
It’s been all over TikTok, maybe mentioned in a friend’s breakup or you heard it in a podcast.
Yet you might still be asking the question, what exactly is it? Especially when it kind of sounds sweet but the reality can be very different.
What is loving bombing?
Put very simply, it is when someone overwhelms you with loving words, actions, and behaviour as a manipulation technique.
It doesn’t just apply to romantic relationships, it can be used to make a friend or loved one dependent on them so they can control the relationship.
Sometimes it can be a learned behaviour, as people may start love bombing after learning it from parents, childhood trauma, or past abusive relationships.
So what a some of the signs to look out for?
Lavish gifting
Though it’s nice to receive a present every once in a while, if someone keeps buying you gifts or buying expensive tickets for something, and not taking “no” for an answer, it can be a red flag.
All of this can seem harmless enough, but the point is to manipulate you into thinking you owe them something.
Too many compliments
If someone’s expressing their undying love after just a short amount of time, it could be a sign that their feelings aren’t genuine.
Some common, over-the-top phrases you might hear could be:
- “I love everything about you.”
- “I’ve never met anyone as perfect as you.”
- “You’re the only person I want to spend time with.”
Calling and texting constantly
It seems like they’re always calling and texting you 24/7 and never leaving you for a second with your own thoughts.
It’s nice to know that someone is on the other end of the phone if you need them, if the communication becomes overwhelming and feels one-sided it could be a sign something it’s right.
They want all your attention
They may even become angry when they don’t get it, pouting when you’re on the phone or rolling their eyes when you ask them to leave.
They’re needy
It can feel no matter how much you give them it will never be enough. If you find yourself cancelling on friends for this person or missing out on opportunities it could be a red flag.
Someone toxic will make you feel indebted to them so that they can rely on you day and night.
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