Mixed signals in a new relationship.
Say you meet someone at a party, and the two of you really hit it off.
They’re inconsistent and unavailable.
The only reassurance you may get in this scenario is the rare time you spend together in person.
They say they want an emotional connection but don’t go deeper.
Some people will send mixed signals about how deep they want the relationship to get.
“This can cause the other person confusion about where the relationship is going.”
They’re only present when it’s convenient for them.
“This can leave the other person feeling manipulated and unsupported.”
They’re all-in for a period of time, then drastically change their behavior.
They flirt with someone else.
If someone who shows interest in you is flirty with other people, that can send mixed signals.
Mixed signals with an ex.
Ending a relationshipcan be complicated, possibly even more so if it ends on good terms.
(This is why some experts recommend theno-contact ruleafter a breakup.)
Acting like they’re OK with moving on, then interfering with new relationships.
Continuing to have sex after the breakup.
Connecting on social media but nowhere else.
How to interpret mixed signals.
By their very nature, mixed signals are difficult to interpret.
Staying in relationships like this can lead to emotional stress.
Why do people send mixed signals?
“They may want opposed or contradictory things, such as absolute freedomandsafety and security.”
Mixed signals can also be the result of anavoidant attachment style, Ajjan adds.
Meaning they tend to pull away when a relationship becomes intimate because those feelings of closeness make them nervous.
The bottom line.
Communication is essential in relationships.
