Where Michigan Ranks Among States Likely to Ghost Dates
If a potential partner abruptly stopped communication without prior notice or explanation, you may have experienced a situation commonly referred to as “ghosting.” The Forbes Health survey polled 5,000 Americans who have actively dated in the last five years. They did this to reveal how ghosting has impacted their “situationships,” and the states where it’s most likely to happen. The survey included questions regarding experiences with ghosting in the context of dating, the timing of such incidents within the relationship, the emotional impact of the experience, and similar aspects.
The findings reveal that 76% of survey participants have had experiences related to ghosting in the context of dating. About 60% reported being ghosted, and 45% admitted to ghosting others. They found an equal distribution of responsibility between men and women, as 44% of males and 47% of females acknowledge ghosting someone. Interestingly, a higher percentage of men (64%) are open about having been ghosted compared to women (57%). The survey also pinpoints the states where ghosting is most prevalent, with the highest instances of either experiencing or perpetrating ghosting.
Where does Michigan rank when it comes to ghosting?
Michigan ranked as one of the states where ghosting is least likely to happen. It secured the third spot on the list of places with lower instances of ghosting. About 57% of people in the state reported experiencing either being ghosted or engaging in ghosting. On the other hand, Rhode Island is where you’re most likely to be ghosted, with 93% saying they’ve either ghosted someone and/or been ghosted.
Other Findings
Also highlighted were the primary reasons for people resorting to ghosting, which were consistent among respondents. For nearly half of the survey participants, the main cause was a mismatch in relationship expectations with the other person. Slightly more than 47% of those surveyed stated that they ghosted due to a lack of compatibility with the other person’s personality, while just over 45% mentioned that they didn’t feel invested enough in the relationship to merit a response.
See what else was found in the study here.
Holiday Dating Do's and Don'ts
Don't Move Too Fast
If you’re started dating someone you really like, it might be temping to bring them to Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. But, that could also freak them out. I remember going out with someone just once and getting invited to a holiday dinner. It made me a little uncomfortable, because even if I liked that person, it seemed like a big jump. So, if you do want to invite that new love to a holiday family event, make sure to talk it over with them and give them the option to say no.
This young couple is totally surprised by moving too fast.
Don't Go Crazy on Gifts If You're in a New Relationship
If you’re in a newer relationship, resist the temptation to buy your new love too much for Christmas. “Oh, he’s a Packers fan! I’m going to buy all the Packers gear I can find!” Just don’t do it. It’s okay to give gifts, but keep it small if you haven’t been together long, or you might look insane.
This young woman is spending too much on her new love.
Do Give Small, Meaningful Gifts
If you’re in a new relationship, you should get something for your new partner during the holidays. But, as mentioned above, don’t overdo it. A small, meaningful gift will likely be welcomed during the holidays and not scare your new love away.
This small gift is perfect for the holidays.
Don't Freak Out If You Don't See Your New Love As Much During the Holidays
Maybe you’re used to seeing your new love a few times a week. What if that’s just once a week, or less, during the holidays? Don’t freak out or start crying or anything. The holidays are a busy time for all, and that means schedules change.
This couple is fighting over missing dates over the holidays.
Do Be on Good Behavior at Holiday Parties with Your New Love
You might get invited to some fun holiday parties or work parties by your new love, and you might want to invite them to yours. That’s fine and much less pressure than a family event. But, be on good behavior. Don’t try to be the life of the party or anything, as you might mortify your date. Sometimes, people like to overdo it in the early stages and try to really impress, but you really just need to be yourself when meeting new friends and chill out a bit.
This couple is enjoying themselves at a holiday party.
