Find out what signs may indicate that you are experiencing the situation
Have you ever been in a relationship where your partner avoids introducing you to his family and friends? Have you ever avoided introducing your partner to your family and friendship circle? This behavior, which generates doubts and insecurities, now has a name: “pocketing”.
The term is used to describe the practice of hiding one’s partner from social circles, creating a distance that raises questions about transparency and commitment in the relationship. Whether intentional or unintentional, pocketing can have a significant emotional impact.
To explain this behavior, the Earth you talked to the psychiatrist Cintia Bragawho explained how pocketing works in the context of relationships.
The doctor analyzes that this behavior can generate an emotional disconnection in the couple, since the person who is “hidden” can feel marginalized or devalued, which compromises trust and reciprocity in the relationship.
How do I know if I’m hidden?
According to the psychiatrist, it is possible to observe some signs that indicate that a person is “hidden” from their partner’s social or family circle, such as:
- The partner avoids social or family events where the other might be introduced;
- There is recurring resistance or excuses when the topic of meeting friends or family is raised;
- The relationship is not mentioned on social media;
- There is a lack of transparency regarding those closest to us, such as friends and family.
What drives someone to practice pocketing?
The expert believes that there are various reasons that lead someone to hide their partner from their social circle, but some of them may include:
- Insecurity about the relationship;
- Fear of disapproval from friends or family;
- Cultural or religious issues;
- Low self-esteem;
- Desire to maintain multiple relationships without commitment.
“In some cases, the person who practices pocketing may experience internal conflicts or fear of intimacy, which prevent them from integrating their partner into their social circle,” adds the psychiatrist.
The doctor points out that the individual suffering from pocketing may begin to question their value in the relationship, developing feelings of rejection, insecurity and low self-esteem. In the long term, this can damage your trust, not only in the current relationship, but also in future ones, and can trigger anxiety or even depressive symptoms.
How to deal with the situation?
Open, non-accusatory communication is essential to broaching the topic if you feel you have a problem. The expert emphasizes that it is important to express how the situation is perceived and the feelings involved, without confrontation.
“Asking the reasons for the behavior can bring underlying problems to light and then work together to resolve potential barriers. If necessary, contacting a couples therapist can be useful to address the problem in a constructive way”, concludes the doctor.
Source: Terra
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
