What is (not) ghosting? A theoretical analysis via three key pillars

Abstract

Ghosting, unilaterally ceasing communication without providing any explanation, has emerged as a prevalent and perplexing form of relationship dissolution. Despite its increasing occurrence, existing definitions of ghosting remain inconclusive and occasionally contradictory. Theoretical frameworks such as relationship dissolution and social exclusion models are in some ways appropriate for understanding ghosting but fail to provide a fully comprehensive understanding. This theoretical analysis addresses the gaps by delineating the specificities and boundaries of ghosting through three key pillars. First (1), we examine the nature of the social connections and types of relationships in which ghosting occurs, as dissolution dynamics differ across romantic partnerships, friendships, or professional relationships. Second (2), we investigate technology's (potentially) pivotal role in ghosting, considering whether ghosting is as contemporary as the terminology suggests. Third, we explore the temporal elements of ghosting (3) discussing the suddenness and definitiveness of ghosting events. Based on this theoretical analysis, we propose the following renovated definition of ghosting: Ghosting is a form of ostracism predominantly enacted through digital technology that consists of a unilateral, sudden or gradual cease of communication without explanation to end a meaningful relationship definitively. Additionally, we discuss neighboring phenomena (e.g., orbiting, breadcrumbing) that are closely similar but distinguishable from ghosting. Lastly, we emphasize the subjectivity of ghosting experiences, highlighting perceptual gaps between ghosters and those being ghosted (‘ghostees’). With this contribution, we present a theoretical framework for studying ghosting and establish the groundwork for future research, facilitating a better comprehension of ghosting's definition within various relationship contexts.