menu_open Columnists
We use cookies to provide some features and experiences in QOSHE

More information  .  Close

The ‘Zombieing’ Dating Trend Is Exactly as Annoying as It Sounds (And Experts Say It’s a Major Red Flag)

17 0
28.05.2026

Get unlimited access to everything VICE has to offer.

Turn off all ads on VICE.com

Exclusive New VICE Documentaries

Member Exclusive Features & Columns

Turn off all ads on VICE.com

Exclusive New VICE Documentaries

Member Exclusive Features & Columns

Turn off all ads on VICE.com

Exclusive New VICE Documentaries

Member Exclusive Features & Columns

4 Magazines Delivered to Your Door

The ‘Zombieing’ Dating Trend Is Exactly as Annoying as It Sounds (And Experts Say It’s a Major Red Flag)

Experts say the “zombieing” pattern usually starts with a casual “hey stranger” text and very little accountability.

Share on X (Opens in new window)X

Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Facebook

Share using Native toolsShareCopied to clipboard

Have you ever had a love interest completely cut off contact, only to circle back months or even years later, as if nothing had happened? (I think most of is If so, you might have been a victim of the toxic dating trend, “zombieing.”

According to Dr. Alexandra Foglia, DMFT, Director of Family Programs of All in Solutions, “‘Zombieing’ occurs when a ghoster (someone who cuts off contact with no explanation) shows back up out of nowhere, usually through a very casual text or small act of engagement. Zombieing represents inconsistent attachment behaviors and a failure to take responsibility for their actions as opposed to true attempts to re-establish a lost connection.”

For instance, after months of no contact, an old hookup might reach out with no intentions of actually rekindling........

© Vice