With Valentine's Day this week, it's clear many couples across the world will be enjoying the romantic holidays and all the perks that come with it.
Though unfortunately for some, it may not all be sunshine and rainbows as, instead of having a Prince Charming, they'll be putting up with what is referred to in a the dating world as a 'cockroach'.
And getting 'roached' is apparently way more common than you'd think, with a relationships expert now issuing a warning on the latest dating trend to take over Gen Z.
Advert
The name comes from the idea of when you see one cockroach scuttling around, it usually means there is an infestation following behind.
And you can probably work out that 'roaching' is a similar concept.
It is where a partner decides to be dishonest, and hides the fact they are seeing you alongside multiple other people while you're still dating.
Advert
As per the NY Post, Exclusive Matchmaking CEO Susan Trombetti said roaching is: "Inspired by the ickiness of seeing one of these nasty little bugs - but knowing when you turn the lights on, there are lots of them."
Now while some of you might be thinking 'just call it cheating?' - technically if you and your potential partner haven’t had the exclusivity chat, you’re well within your right to date more than one person.
It’s just not exactly nice.
And according to Forbes, there are a few telltale signs you can look out for...
Advert
Secretive behaviour
If the person you're dating is particularly secretive about aspects of their personal life, it could be a sign of 'roaching'.
This is especially regarding their potential romantic interests, it's important to keep an eye on cagey behaviour!
Lack of commitment
This is a red flag in any relationship, but a partner leaving you uncertain about where you stand is not fair.
Advert
This could be a sign of being 'roached', because they can't choose to commit to you exclusively, thus leave you in a 'state of uncertainty'.
Inconsistent communication
If the person you're dating disappears for abnormal amounts of time, and comes back with a flaky, half-hearted excuse afterwards, it could be time to call it quits.
Unexplained changes in plans
Could their 'side ting' have just called for them to come round? You'll literally never know if they're being completely genuine.
Advert
Of course, sometimes plans change last minute, but when this becomes a habit, it could be time to re-think your situation.
Mixed signals
If you feel like you're being left hanging constantly, or they tell you one thing and do another, you could be a victim of 'roaching'.
In addition, senior therapist Sally Baker told Metro that you should look for ‘giveaways in body language’.
“Most people are uncomfortable telling lies so they will subconsciously give clues either verbally or physically that they’re not being transparent or completely honest,” she explained.
Sally explained that it’s hardly worth requesting exclusivity from a partner if one of you is maintaining a secret social life anyway, so you might have had a lucky escape after all!
Topics: Sex and Relationships, Dating, Dating trends, Life, Advice, Gen Z
Rhiannon Ingle