Social Media Ghosting

'Ghosting' has been defined as the act of cutting off all communication with someone who you had previously been communicating with (either online or in-person), without any explanation. Although ghosting has been a ‘hot topic’ in the media, there is very limited empirical research on the topic. During emerging adulthood, relationships with friends and romantic partners play a salient role in identity development and overall psychosocial functioning. Thus, understanding the nature and consequences of ghosting behaviors during this developmental life stage is an important task for researchers.

The purpose of the qualitative Social Media Ghosting study was to explore how emerging adults define and experience ghosting. Through focus groups, the study explored factors that motivate someone to ghost, as well as the perceived psychosocial consequences of being ghosted by someone. The study also assessed social norms in relation to social media in participants’ ghosting experiences.