Study finds people who ghost feel guilty about it

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 17 Oct, 15:38 · Archive

Research shows people who ghost experience guilt and remorse, though they also feel relieved.

Researchers from Cambridge and the University of California explored ghosting through three studies covering lived experiences, imagined situations and live digital interactions. Their findings, published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, revealed that people who ghost experience guilt and sadness about their actions—feelings greater than those being ghosted would predict.

However, the study also found that ghosters feel more relieved than their recipients would expect. The research suggests that those being ghosted underestimate how bad their conversation partners feel about ghosting them, adding a layer of complexity to understanding the phenomenon.

The study authors concluded that mistakenly underestimating ghosters' negative feelings could reduce the potential for reconciliation. They noted their research provides a window into 'the overlooked pain of ghosting others', suggesting the experience affects both parties involved in ways that may not be immediately apparent to either side.

How it is being reported

• Hurt people hurt people: Studies show people who ‘ghost’ are worse off than their victimsResearchers have recently discovered that people who perform this cruel disappearing act are often beset with guilt, shame and remorse.New York Post · 17 Oct, 15:24
• In Eye-Rolling News, People Who Ghost You DO Feel Guilty About ItIf you have been ghosted , you know how painful it can be. Everything seems fine, you’re really enjoying being with somebody and then, suddenly, they have disappeared with no explanation. This is most commonly attributed to romantic relationships but it can happen in friendships too and it is really bloody painful sometimes. In fact, a study published in November of last year found that ghosting is more painful than being directly rejected. Which makes sense! Shaylyn on Unsplash " />All of my ex situationships hanging out. Ghosters do feel bad about their actions After being ghosted, it’s…HuffPost UK · 16 Oct, 16:05

In this story: Cambridge · University of California · Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin

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