What Is Love Bombing?

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how love bombing begins: with an emotional high that quickly turns into a confusing crash. Once dependency sets in, the dynamic can shift dramatically, leaving someone feeling off balance and unsure of what just happened. (via) ^rwhi881598966

Key Characteristics of Love Bombing • Gushing compliments or ‘soulmate’ talk very early on • Lavish gifts or grand gestures that feel out of proportion • Constant texting or pressuring to always be available • Pushing for big commitments quickly (moving in, future plans, saying “I love you” fast) • Possessiveness, but presented as concern or protectiveness • Discomfort or anger when you ask for space (via) ^rwhi881598979

Phases of Love BombingIdealization Phase This is the “wow” stage. You’re praised, adored, and told you’re unlike anyone else (well, you are unlike anyone else, but still). Things feel effortless with this person, and they might say things like “I’ve never felt this way before” after only a few dates. It can feel magical, but it’s also moving at a speed that can make you dizzy. The dizziness of falling in love can so easily be confused with this type of experience, so it’s easy to get jumbled by what’s actually happening here. Devaluation Phase Once closeness is secured, the vibe changes. You might start hearing criticism, notice emotional distance, or feel like you’re suddenly “not enough.” This shift is usually subtle at first, but still deeply disorienting. Confusion is part of the pattern. Discard Phase Eventually, the emotional rug might get pulled out completely. The person may ghost you, withdraw from you, or turn cold. Or they may pop back into your life unexpectedly, acting as if nothing happened. This back-and-forth is exhausting and destabilizing for most of us. (via) ^rwhi881599082

biggest red flag is just how fast everything is happening. What relationship therapists say is that healthy love has room to breathe. (via) ^rwhi881599179

that boundaries aren’t walls…they’re doors. Boundaries help us decide who we let in, and how. People who have been bombed can learn from a scary and often disheartening experience like this…become wise about who’s safe to let in, so that this doesn’t happen again. (via) ^rwhi881599253