As Valentine’s Day approaches, many relationships are starting to be placed under the microscope in the run-up to the romantic season. But, new data compiled by Compare and Recycle revealed one common habit that could leave many single by February 14th.
Ever been in a situation where you’re pouring your heart out to someone, only to realise they’re more interested in their mobile phone than having a conversation? Well, experts reveal that you may have experienced a classic case of ‘phubbing.’
In a world where we are obsessed with our phones, human connection and the art of being a good listener can often feel like difficult attributes to find in a partner. So much so that phubbing is not the newest threat to our romantic relationships.
In fact, experts from Compare and Recycle reveal that searches for “what is phubbing behavior” have soared by 1,300% over the past twelve months, suggesting that many of us are worried about the habit.
Thankfully, experts at Compare and Recycle have uncovered why phubbing is ruining our relationships… and how to stop it.
What is ‘phubbing’?
Created through merging the worlds ‘snubbing’ and ‘phone’, phubbing could be your partner’s biggest problem with your relationship.
The phenomenon of ‘phubbing’ was recognised in 2012 and describes the moment when a loved one is not engaging with their partner because they are distracted by their mobile phone. If you are being phubbed, you are the phubee, while if you are doing the phubbing, you are classed as the phubber.
But phubbing is more than just a pet peeve, Brits have now revealed that it is a relationship buzzkill. This is not only mutually exclusive to romantic relationships, many of us feel neglected in our friendships as well as the relationships in our family. The worrying issue is that our ever-growing dependence on technology has begun to sabotage relationships.
How ‘phubbing’ is ruining relationships
Experts at Compare and Recycle have uncovered data from ‘phubbing experts’, Professor Karen Douglas and Dr. Varoth Chotpitayasunondh, that shows how phubbing leads to relationship downfall as our partners feel socially excluded and unimportant in their partner’s lives.
While the ‘phubber’ may feel like they are multi-tasking in their quest for that quick dopamine hit often chased while scrolling, their partner often leaves feeling rejected and lonely. This could ultimately cause the relationship to break down.
Are you a ‘phubber’?
Here are the classic signs to look for if you are a ‘phubber’:
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If you can’t sit through a meal without checking your mobile phone, then there is a high chance you may be a phubber. Even having your phone out on the table can interfere with the connection between two people having a conversation over dinner.
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You constantly get your phone out in social settings.
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You check your phone as soon as it rings or pings.
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You can’t stop scrolling in bed even when your partner is lying right next to you.
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If you’re out with friends, you constantly check your phone for messages from other people.
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