3 Tell-Tale Signs of Stashing in a Relationship
Imagine this: You’ve been dating someone for several months now. You spend hours chatting online and talking to each other almost every day. Not to mention you’ve both gone out on a string of memorable dates and casual hangouts.
Fortunately, things are going well so far.
You feel optimistic that this is going to the next level. The only stumbling block is that for some reason, you’re still wondering why they haven’t introduced you to their family and circle of friends yet.
In this case, your date is stashing you.
According to Metro UK, stashing is when one person in the relationship makes a conscious choice to hide the other person from their family and friends, both on social media and in real life.
If you’re currently in a relationship and don’t want to be a stashee, detecting signs of stashing earlier in the dating phase can save you from tears and a broken heart. Of course, no one wants to be stashed because it’s just downright disrespectful, hurtful, and humiliating.
Here are some tell-tale signs you need to look out for:
Their friends don’t recognize you
Picture this: You’re both strolling down the street, talking about how you enjoyed each other’s company, when suddenly you bump into one of their friends. They chat for a few minutes while you’re left standing in the corner, trying to force a smile. They end the small talk and part ways as if nothing happened.
Have you experienced this before? If so, how often?
It’s one thing if it happened only once. But if this occurred several times, it’s safe to say that it’s a clear indication of stashing.
They show no concern about you meeting their family
Meeting the family is a huge stepping stone in starting a committed relationship because it evokes trust.
It’s reasonable if their parents are living overseas. But if their family is living in the local area and they aren’t making an effort to introduce you to them after several months of dating, tag them as a stasher.
Aside from that, pay attention to how they react when you talk about meeting their family. Do they get uncomfortable? Do they always present an alibi?
Also, one potential indication of stashing is when they suddenly shift the discussion of meeting their parents.
There’s not a glimpse of you on their social media
Not everyone likes to post about their love life on social media. If they’re not flooding their profile with your cute selfies and mushy captions about your romantic or casual date nights, don’t get offended. Perhaps they’re just not into broadcasting their life on the Internet.
However, if they regularly post photos but never share any with you in it or any indication they’re with you, this can definitely raise some eyebrows.
For example, they post a photo of your meal but don’t tag you or mention you in the comments.
Relationships are about two people sharing a life together. If your date can’t introduce you to their friends, let alone their family, it’s time to take a step back and see the bigger picture. Perhaps it’s time to find someone who’s proud of you and doesn’t hide you behind the curtains.
