Love bombing, chameleoning; know dating terms of Gen Z relationships

Generation Z (Gen Z) includes people from 1997 to approximately 2012, representing today's generation who are in their adolescence and youth. The landscape of romantic relationships has evolved significantly since a time when love was defined in more simplistic terms. Today, various labels exist to describe the situations of romantic relationships. These names are labelled according to specific circumstances that may arise, including those related to emotional and mental situations. Numerous factors, such as shifts in life situations and the influence of technology, play a crucial role in shaping contemporary relationships. In such a changing modern concept of relationships, different terms are used to reflect aspects such as partner behaviour, mutual understanding, and emotional intimacy. Also, the impact of these elements on an individual's mental well-being is considered. Let's understand the new generation relationship terminology that is gaining popularity among Gen Zs.

Delusionship
Delusionship is a term derived from the word 'delusion,' signifying an illusion, combined with 'ship,' which refers to a relationship. It describes a situation where two individuals in a romantic relationship have delusions and unrealistic expectations of one another. These relationships often lack genuine mental or emotional intimacy. These people frequently find themselves in such relationships due to a lack of open communication. Continuing in delusionships without mutual understanding can have detrimental effects on mental health.

Chameleoning
Chameleoning refers to a behavioural tendency to alter one's ‘colour’, akin to the chameleon. This concept describes a dynamic relationship in which an individual significantly modifies their personality, interests, and behaviour to appeal to a partner. Such behaviour often involves sacrificing one's personality to align with the partner's preferences. Such people may undergo substantial personality changes, whether intentionally or unintentionally. While minor adjustments within a relationship can foster positive outcomes, a complete transformation of one's identity can result in considerable stress.

Love bombing
Love bombing is a situation in romantic relationships that resembles the emotional exploitation of an individual. In this scenario, one partner may endure mistreatment while simultaneously being showered with gifts and affection, to cover up the negative behavior. When someone experiences poor treatment on one hand but is met with excessive attention on the other, they may struggle to fully understand their emotional state. This pattern of receiving overwhelming love inconsistently can become habitual. Amid the changing circumstances, a person may become vulnerable and develop an unhealthy dependence on the relationship. It is important to note that a deteriorating situation is not always necessary to cause significant mental distress.

Fake-ups
Fake-ups is a word with multiple meanings. In such a relationship, an individual fictitiously separates from one's partner to understand the loyalty and commitment of the partner within a romantic relationship. Additionally, fake-ups also include pretending to break up to gain sympathy and support from others. Also, they serve as a tactic to threaten an immediate breakup without addressing any underlying issues in their relationship. As a result, this leaves the other individual in a state of worry and anxiety regarding the potential end of the relationship, which can adversely impact their mental health.

These words employed by the new generation show the ability to differentiate between various circumstances, even though such situations have been present in romantic relationships in all generations. This also indicates that younger individuals are increasingly mindful of their mental well-being. Such differentiation helps Gen Z in identifying the nature of a situation and enables them to turn away if it proves harmful.