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In a memorable KBC episode, breadcrumbing and benching were explained to Amitabh Bachchan. These modern dating terms reflect the emotional complexities in today’s relationships, making it crucial to recognise and address manipulative behaviours.
KBC Contestant teaches Amitabh Bachchan about breadcrumbing and benching; Know more about these concepts and how to handle them in a relationship (Freepik)
Mumbai: Relationships have always been complex, but in the age of digital communication and evolving social norms, they’ve become even more intricate. The landscape of modern dating is now peppered with a variety of new terms and behaviours that can add layers of confusion and ambiguity.
Concepts like breadcrumbing and benching, among others, have emerged, reflecting the challenges and nuances of navigating romantic connections in today’s world. These terms highlight how people engage in relationships—sometimes with unclear intentions or emotional manipulation—which can make understanding and managing romantic interactions more difficult than ever. As we adapt to these new dynamics, it’s crucial to be aware of these modern terms and their implications to foster healthier and more transparent relationships.
In a recent episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati, a contestant explained modern dating terms to host Amitabh Bachchan. In a hilarious video shared by Sony Entertainment Television’s official Instagram, the contestant described the term ‘breadcrumbing.’ She explained that breadcrumbing occurs when both individuals drop subtle hints of romantic interest without committing to a relationship.
WATCH:
Breadcrumbing
Breadcrumbing in modern dating is a manipulative behaviour where someone leads another person by giving intermittent, superficial signs of interest—like messages, compliments, or flirtation—without any intention of deepening the relationship. The person doing the breadcrumbing keeps the other individual engaged and emotionally invested, but never fully commits to a relationship. It’s often done to maintain control over someone’s attention or to have them as a backup option, rather than pursuing something serious or genuine.
This behaviour can be confusing and frustrating for the person being breadcrumbed, as they may feel misled into thinking there’s potential for something more, only to be left with uncertainty and disappointment. The term draws from the idea of leaving ‘breadcrumbs’ as tiny signals, just enough to keep the other person following along.
In another video, the contestant humorously explains the term ‘benching’ to Amitabh Bachchan. She describes benching as the act of keeping multiple romantic options open. Playfully using an example, she says she could be one option for Amitabh Bachchan while his wife, Jaya Bachchan, could be another. The idea behind benching is to avoid running out of potential romantic partners if one relationship fails or a partner loses interest.
WATCH:
Benching
Benching in modern dating refers to the act of keeping someone as a romantic option without fully committing to them. It’s similar to putting them ‘on the bench’ like in sports, where they are not actively involved but kept around as a backup. The person doing the benching engages just enough to maintain interest but avoids moving the relationship forward.
Benching typically involves sporadic communication and minimal effort to keep the person on standby, ensuring they’re available if other options fall through or don’t work out. This behaviour can leave the benched person feeling uncertain and sidelined, as they are not given a clear direction about where the relationship is headed.
How to deal with breadcrumbing and benching in a relationship?
Dealing with breadcrumbing and benching can be challenging, but understanding how to manage these behaviours can help you maintain healthier relationships. Here are some strategies to address each:
Dealing with breadcrumbing
- Recognise the signs: Be aware of patterns where someone gives intermittent signs of interest without commitment. If you find yourself receiving occasional messages or gestures that are inconsistent, it may be breadcrumbing.
- Set clear boundaries: Communicate your expectations. Let the person know that you’re looking for a serious relationship and that sporadic attention is not sufficient for you.
- Assess your needs: Reflect on what you want from a relationship. If you’re looking for commitment and consistency, understand that breadcrumbing is not aligned with your goals.
- Limit engagement: If someone is breadcrumbing you, consider reducing or ending communication. Don’t invest too much emotionally if the other person is not providing the same level of commitment.
Dealing with benching
- Evaluate the situation: Determine if you’re being kept as a backup option. If communication is sporadic and there’s no effort to move the relationship forward, you might be on the bench.
- Communicate your feelings: Express how you feel about the lack of commitment or clarity. It’s important to communicate your needs and see if the other person is willing to meet them.
- Focus on yourself: Redirect your energy towards self-improvement and other aspects of your life. Engaging in personal interests and building confidence can help shift focus away from the uncertain relationship.
- Decide to move on: If the person is consistently benching you and not offering a clear path forward, it might be best to move on. Pursue relationships where you receive the attention and commitment you deserve.
Tips
- Trust your instincts: Pay attention to your feelings and instincts about the relationship. If something feels off, it’s important to trust yourself.
- Seek support: Talking to friends or a therapist can provide valuable perspective and support as you navigate these situations.
- Practice self-care: Prioritise your well-being and emotional health. Engaging in activities that make you feel good and surrounded by supportive people can help you manage the stress of complex relationship dynamics.
By recognising and addressing breadcrumbing and benching effectively, you can work towards healthier and more fulfilling relationships, ensuring that your emotional needs are met and respected.
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