Playing Hard to Get in Dating

Playing hard to get is a dating strategy where individuals purposely withhold their interest to increase desirability. While the concept may seem outdated, recent research suggests it still holds some weight. Studies have shown that playing hard to get can lead to increased pursuit from potential partners, particularly when there is already a strong initial interest. However, it may not necessarily lead to genuine liking or positive emotional experiences. The effectiveness of playing hard to get is influenced by factors such as gender and attachment styles. Additionally, newer studies explore how this strategy is present in online dating and the various manifestations it takes, such as breadcrumbing and ghosting.