Chicago – Clinical psychologist and acclaimed sex\/intimacy coach Dr. Lori Beth Bisbey exposes the subtle manipulation of ‘breadcrumbing’ in modern dating \u2013 a trail of empty promises that leaves hearts hanging.<\/p>\n
“Breadcrumbing is when the person has no intention of taking things further, but loves the attention so they send messages, flirt and do things to keep you interested and involved,\u201d explains Bisbey of the behavior, which often entails \u201cflirty texting until you ask to talk or meet, then ghosting for a few days, then texting again, moving to light sexting, a phone call and then excuses to dial contact back down.\u201d<\/p>\n
Bisbey asserts that his type of behavior \u201ccan encourage someone to divert energy, time, attention and money to try to move things forward while knocking their confidence, self-esteem and make them feel a bit crazy, as they are being gaslit.\u201d<\/p>\n
She recommends direct communication to discern intentions and set clear boundaries to avoid the emotional pitfalls of breadcrumbing. “Once you realize the person is breadcrumbing, my best tip is: if you want an actual relationship, move on and find someone who wants an actual relationship with you. Breadcrumbing is all about them getting their need for attention met and doesn\u2019t consider you or your feelings, needs or desires at all.”<\/p>\n