In the modern world of online dating, games are a given, and the deeper we collectively fall into the rabbit hole of shallow, meaningless social interactions the more verbs we add into our sad dating vernacular. The newest to arrive into prominence is that of "benching", a phenomenon that's probably been in existence for quite some time, however, in today's culture it's a thing. Where ghosting saw potential romantic partners exchanging flirty texts, late night phone calls, and cozy wine and Netflix nights followed by complete and utter silence on ones part, Benching finds an impossibly more cruel tactic altogether. The psychology is quite simple. In a culture of instant gratification, swiping profiles, and FWB, consistent monogamy seems passe and antiquated. No one wants to commit, for fear that one more swipe of their thumb could land them someone hotter, more qualified, more successful, better in bed. Benching occurs at the intersection between ghosting and a longing for a healthy long term relationship. We "bench" people as if they were players on our team of prospective lovers. Not quite good enough to settle down with, but not so pathetic that we'll toss them aside entirely. We string our hopeful partners along with innuendo, late night texts and endless hypothetical plans and dates, with nothing to ever show for it. "Ghosting" effectively renders a romantic interest defunct, however, benching allows for a glimmer of hope for future relations. Tell-tale signs of being benched include: "Just Friends" Ever had a romantic interest who seemed to be infatuated, yet reluctant to let on how they felt? Did that same partner end up turning down the heat to a fizzle and end up playing the just friends card? If so, you've got yourself a bencher. No one needs friends, especially those who at one point seemed to be romantically or sexually inclined. This friendship is none other than a glorified romantic bench, join the other sad lineup of players or cut the cord. "Coming out of the woodwork" This is a telltale sign of benching. A prospective love interest disappearing and then suddenly popping back into your life periodically. I'm sorry but where the hell did you go... LOL bye. "Plans that never come to fruition" Have you been making endless plans for drinks at Hey Lucy, or a trip to the aquarium, but somehow they just never seem to fall into place? Who are we kidding, it's not going to happen. You're being benched, and the sooner you accept it, the sooner you can beat them to the punch. Follow us on Snapchat: narcitytoronto
