What is Love-Bombing?

In recent years, the term love-bombing has been appearing more often in conversations about dating and relationships. But what does it actually mean? And why is it important to be aware of it?

Defining Love-Bombing

Love-bombing refers to the use of excessive affection, attention, and grand gestures at the beginning of a relationship (or sometimes during) to create an intense emotional connection very quickly. It often involves:

• Constant compliments and praise

• Over-the-top gifts or gestures

• Frequent messages, calls, or unexpected visits

• Early declarations of deep love or commitment

  
  

At first, it can feel flattering—who doesn’t want to feel adored? But the intensity of love-bombing can be overwhelming and confusing, and in some cases, it may be a red flag for unhealthy relationship patterns.

Why Love-Bombing Happens

Love-bombing isn’t always malicious, but it can sometimes be a tactic used by individuals who want to gain control in a relationship. For example:

• Control and dependency: By overwhelming someone with affection, the person may try to make you dependent on them emotionally.

• Fast-tracking intimacy: It can pressure the relationship to move much more quickly than feels natural.

• Masking insecurities: Some people love-bomb because they feel anxious about being abandoned or rejected, so they overcompensate.

  
  

How to Tell the Difference

It’s important to note that genuine affection is a healthy part of relationships. The difference is that genuine care grows steadily and respects your boundaries, while love-bombing often feels rushed and one-sided. Ask yourself:

• Do I feel pressured or overwhelmed by their attention?

• Is there space for me to set boundaries without guilt?

• Does their affection seem consistent, or does it switch off if I don’t respond how they want?

  
  

The Impact of Love-Bombing

Being love-bombed can create emotional highs and lows. The sudden withdrawal of affection—sometimes called the “devaluation phase”—can leave a person feeling confused, anxious, or even questioning their own worth.

Over time, this cycle can affect self-esteem and make it difficult to trust future relationships.

What You Can Do

If you suspect you’re experiencing love-bombing:

• Take a step back and give the relationship more time before making big commitments.

• Set clear boundaries and notice how the other person responds.

• Talk with a trusted friend or counsellor about what you’re noticing.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Love-bombing can be mistaken for “true love at first sight,” but it often signals an imbalance in the relationship. Healthy love develops over time, with space for mutual respect, boundaries, and trust.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about the intensity of someone’s affection, you’re not alone. Speaking to a counsellor can help you sort through your feelings and decide what’s best for you.