Psychology of dating in the workplace

And while this post focuses on romantic relationships, it's worth noting that ghosting can also happen -- no less painfully -- in platonic friendships as well.

Even though the silence probably left you at best confused, and at worst, diving into your deepest insecurities for answers, an survey found that you've also likely been the ghost yourself at some point.

"Ghosting" is when someone you're dating ends the relationship by cutting off all communication, without any explanation.

And we're not talking about not getting a text back after one awkward OKCupid date, but receiving the ultimate silent treatment after several dates, or when you're in a committed relationship.

While ghosting seems to have become pervasive over the last decade, and many people point to more online dating apps and fading decorum around courting as causes -- ghosting is nothing new.

According to a study on preferred relationship ending strategies conducted in the 1970s, when one person ends a relationship through avoidance, it's likely to trigger more anger and hurt for the recipient.

Scientific studies on ghosting show it's costly for both parties Relationship research shows that ghosting (a.k.a.

avoidance) is the worst way to end a relationship, according to the recipient, and can actually lead to bigger confrontations down the line.

Fear of disappointing someone, looking like the "bad guy," or dealing with someone's direct anger can cause anxiety.These could include small disagreements with your significant other.Over time, you'll conquer your fear of conflict and tendency to avoid hard conversations.You have every right to escape the latter without further communication, in whatever way keeps you physically and emotionally safe.However, if your motivation for disappearing is avoidance, then you might want to consider a better way to break up.