This Valentine’s Day, some people are busy making reservations or planning dinner menus, while others may be putting the finishing touches on a text message to someone they have never met in person.
In some cases, this practice is known as ‘dexting’, a new trend that singles would do well to avoid if they don’t want to end up in a purely virtual, platonic relationship.
Picture a scenario where you’ve found an amazing match but have never actually met them in real life. This type of virtual, message-based relationship is known as dexting, and it may not be as beneficial as it seems.
The term ‘dexting’ is a contraction of the words ‘dating’ and ‘texting’, and it refers to a relationship based on the exchange of SMS messages, without any physical encounters.
While dexting might seem ideal for building a strong bond with a partner, it may not be beneficial for both parties involved in the long run.
According to a definition from Cambridge University Press, dexting is “exchanging many text messages with someone you have met on a dating app without ever meeting them in person”.
At first glance, dexting may seem convenient and safe, but this form of relationship can prove to be toxic and lead to wasted time.
While dexting may make it feel like you are in a relationship without actually putting in the work or making a real commitment, many social media posts about dexting reveal that it is not a healthy practice.
One user shares her experience of dexting a potential partner for several months before meeting him, only to realize that he was not what she was looking for.
Ultimately, dexting can end up wasting your time and leaving you feeling disillusioned.
