Fempo EditorsWhat’s Worse: Being Blocked or Ghosted? Unveiling the Painful Truths Behind Relationship Disconnections:Are you tired of being left hanging? Wondering which is worse: being blocked or being ghosted? Well, you’ve come to the right place! In this blog post, we’re going to delve into the world of ghosting and blocking in relationships, and compare the pain they inflict. We’ll also explore the role of social media in these modern-day phenomena, and uncover the reasons behind why people choose to ghost or block. And fear not, we’ll also provide some tips on how to deal with the aftermath of being ghosted or blocked. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the intriguing world of ghosting and blocking.
Understanding Ghosting and Blocking in Relationships
Relationship dynamics have evolved with the advent of digital communication, and along with it, the ways in which people end connections. Ghosting and blocking are two common methods that have emerged, each with their distinct emotional impacts.
The Emotional Impact of Ghosting
Imagine waking up one day to find that someone you’ve been connecting with has suddenly disappeared from your life without any explanation. This is ghosting. Ghosting usually involves someone who is relatively new in your life, and it can leave you in a state of confusion and emotional stress. The abrupt end to communication, without closure, can lead to a whirlwind of questions and self-doubt.
Blocking: A Clear Yet Emotional Cut-off
On the other hand, being blocked is often associated with deeper emotional ties, such as those found in long-standing relationships. When someone you love decides to block you, it can feel like a direct and personal attack on your worth and your past relationship. This act often carries more emotional weight due to the history and connection you may have shared.
Comparing the Pain: Ghosting vs. Blocking
Why Ghosting Might Hurt More
While both ghosting and blocking can be painful experiences, ghosting is often considered the crueler act. The reason is that ghosting leaves the person on the receiving end hanging. They might continue to send messages, reaching out in hope of an explanation or a response, but to no avail. This lack of closure can result in anger, confusion, and a profound sense of rejection.
Zombied: A Step Beyond Ghosting
There’s even a term for when someone who ghosted you suddenly reappears after a long absence—zombied. The act of ‘zombied’ can be even more confusing and damaging than ghosting because it disrupts the healing process, bringing back a flood of emotions and potentially false hope.
The Role of Social Media in Ghosting and Blocking
Ghosting in the Digital World
Ghosting is not limited to personal interactions; it can occur on social media too. It involves cutting off all contact without explanation, which can include unfriending, unfollowing, and yes, even blocking. In some extreme cases, a person might deactivate or delete their social media accounts entirely to avoid contact, leaving the other person with no means to reach out or understand what went wrong.
Blocking as a Coping Mechanism
Blocking, particularly between ex-partners, can be a means to cope with the loss of a relationship. It’s a definitive statement that one does not wish to be contacted, which can be a necessary step for some individuals to move on.
Does Blocking Equal Hatred?
The act of blocking doesn’t necessarily mean that someone hates you. The circumstances of the relationship and the reasons for separation are crucial in understanding the emotions behind the action. It can be a form of self-preservation rather than an act of malice.
Understanding the Reasons Behind Ghosting and Blocking
The Mindset Behind Ghosting
“People typically ghost because they aren’t able to offer the level of commitment they think they’re expected to give, whether that’s communication over text, another hookup, or a relationship,” says Hannah Orenstein, giving us some insight into the ghoster’s psyche.
When Does Ghosting Really Take Place?
There isn’t a stopwatch that starts ticking down the seconds until a lack of response officially becomes ghosting. It’s about the intent and the cessation of communication. If someone stops communicating with you entirely, especially if they ignore your attempts to reconnect, it’s ghosting—regardless of how long you’ve known them.
Why Might a Person Choose Not to Block?
Men might opt to ghost rather than block if they have lost interest or are more captivated by someone else. Ghosting, in this case, can be a non-confrontational escape route. For women, the reasons can be similar. If a girl ghosts you but doesn’t block you, it might be because she is keeping you as a backup option, or she is not ready to completely close off the possibility of communication in the future.
Dealing with the Aftermath of Ghosting and Blocking
How to Cope with Being Ghosted or Blocked
Being on the receiving end of ghosting or blocking can be a deeply painful experience. Here are some actionable tips to help cope with the emotional fallout:
- Seek Support: Talk to friends and family about what you’re going through. They can provide a different perspective and much-needed emotional support.
- Reflect on the Relationship: Take time to reflect on the relationship and recognize any red flags or incompatibilities that may have led to this outcome.
- Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote your well-being and happiness. This can range from exercise, meditation, to pursuing hobbies.
- Acceptance: Accept that the other person’s decision to ghost or block is beyond your control and is a reflection of their limitations, not yours.
- Seek Closure Within: Create your own sense of closure by writing a letter (that you don’t send) expressing your feelings, or by having a symbolic letting-go ceremony.
When to Move On
It’s important to recognize when it’s time to move on. If communication has ceased and you’ve made attempts to reach out without response, it may be time to focus on yourself and your own growth.
Concluding Thoughts on Ghosting and Blocking
Both ghosting and blocking can leave deep emotional scars, but ghosting is often seen as the harsher method due to its silent nature and the lack of closure it provides. Blocking, while also painful, at least offers a clear end to communication. In either case, the most important thing is to take care of oneself and to remember that such actions are a reflection of the other person’s character, not your own worth or desirability.
As we navigate the complexities of modern relationships, it’s crucial to foster communication, respect, and closure, even when relationships come to an end. This not only helps in healing but also paves the way for healthier connections in the future.
FAQ & Common Questions about What’s Worse Blocking or Ghosting?
Q: How many days is considered ghosting?
A: There’s not a set amount of time it takes before it’s considered ghosting, and it doesn’t matter how long you’ve known the person. If they stop communicating with you completely without a word despite your follow-ups, it’s ghosting.
Q: Why would a girl ghost me but not block me?
A: Most likely they have someone else they are far more interested in. If she messages you back in the future it’s most likely that things didn’t go as she wanted and thinks you will be there for her again.
Q: Why did he ghost and block me?
A: “People typically ghost because they aren’t able to offer the level of commitment they think they’re expected to give, whether that’s communication over text, another hookup, or a relationship,” explains Hannah Orenstein, author of Playing with Matches and Love at First Like, and former matchmaker.
Q: What does ghosting say about a person?
A: Ghosting shows a lack of consideration for the other person’s emotions and well-being. It can be hurtful and confusing and can make others feel disregarded, devalued, and hurt. Healthy relationships are built on respect and consideration for one another.
Q: Should I seek professional help if I’ve been ghosted?
A: Seeking professional help can be beneficial if you’re struggling with the emotional impact of being ghosted. A therapist or counselor can provide support and guidance to help you navigate your feelings and move forward in a healthy way.
