Benching in Relationships: What It Means and How to Protect Yourself:

Suspense crime, Digital Desk : In the modern, multi-faceted world of dating, new terms frequently come into existence. One of these is “benching.” In short, benching is when a person keeps you as a backup option without fully engaging in a committed relationship. They do not end the relationship, but they also do not take it to the next stage, leaving you in a state of emotional stagnation.

Diagnosing the Benching Syndrome

Benching is when a person:

Attempts to stay engaged by flirting, texting, or checking in with you periodically.

Avoids serious discussions about where the relationship is headed.

Keeps you optimistic while not making any commitment.

Avoids giving specific answers regarding where the relationship stands.

In other words, they want you close enough to chase, but not close enough to give a commitment.

Typical Symptoms of Benching

If you believe that someone is benching you, look out for these behaviors:

Inconsistent communication: Sometimes they talk frequently but then go silent for days, weeks, or even longer.

Hypothetical commitment: They refuse to provide a label for the relationship or any discussions regarding the future.

Restricted to digital interactions: While they may frequently engage in conversation, they digitally, speak emotionally, but do not rendezvous in person.

Misleading offers: They frequently offer things that they do not carry out.

Circumstantial engagement: They only engage when it is convenient for them.

Preventing and Dealing with Benching

If you feel like you're being benched, these are steps you can take:

Engage in an open and frank dialogue: Inquire of them what exactly do they want out of the relationship.

Define your value: You are worth more than being someone’s second choice.

Look for signals: If people consistently ghost, lie, and/or avoid engaging emotionally, this represents a pattern that should raise alarm.

Establish limits: No more vague interactions to waste your time.

Consult with trustworthy friends or relatives: Their judgment can provide you with a clearer understanding of the situation and help you gain additional insights.