Sometimes, a new relationship starts so quickly that it becomes difficult to tell whether it is love or something else. At first, everything seems like something out of a movie: lots of messages, lots of attention, frequent surprises, and grand gestures that make you feel very special. But if all this intense love starts to feel a little uneasy, it’s important to ask yourself: Could this be love bombing? Let us understand what it is.

What is love bombing?

Love bombing is a situation where someone showers you with excessive love, attention and gifts in order to quickly win your trust. At first, it feels great, but the real purpose is control. Psychologists explain that this is a form of mental and emotional abuse that often begins in the early stages of a relationship. In the beginning, the love bomber bombards you with compliments and attention. They constantly text, call, and want your presence all the time. Often, within the first few weeks they start talking about the future, like marriage, moving in together, or whether you two are meant for each other. Initially, it seems romantic, but over time, it starts to feel like pressure.

What are the steps involved?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, there are three distinct stages of love bombing. In the first stage, you are given so much love and attention that you become completely carefree; You feel completely safe. In the second step, control is gradually introduced. There are expectations to be present at all times, attempts to isolate you from friends and family, and questions about your activities. Sometimes, it reaches to gaslighting, where you start doubting your own feelings. In the third stage, when you start setting boundaries, your partner either blames you or ends the relationship.

Difference between love and love bombing

It is important to recognize the difference between true love and love bombing. A healthy relationship respects your time, boundaries, and comfort. But the Love Bomber doesn’t accept your “no”. If you set a boundary and the other person argues against it, ignores it, or tries to make you feel guilty, it’s a clear sign that the relationship is going in the wrong direction. Some common signs of love bombing include giving unnecessarily expensive gifts, rushing into the relationship, demanding constant attention, displaying jealous and controlling behavior, and disrespecting your boundaries.