Modern day dating can be difficult, especially when singletons have to be constantly clued up on current trends in the world of romance.
It seems like there are warnings being shelled out every week telling people to be wary of the latest craze that could spell disaster for their relationships.
Well, I'm sorry to break it to you - but there isn't any respite over the festive period, either.
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In fact, this bizarre dating trend thrives in the countdown to Christmas and will probably be cropping up a lot already.
We're talking about 'Scrooging' of course - where a person dumps their significant other right before 25 December in order to get out of buying them a gift.
You can understand how this trend got its name.
If your unknowingly in a relationship with a cheapskate who values cash over your feelings and embodies Ebenezer Scrooge, the holiday season could end in heartbreak for you.
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Apparently, there are several potential reasons for why someone might breakup with you in this way - and it's not just in a bid to avoid the busy shops.
According to Times Now, Scrooge-like lovers may just not fancy a long-term commitment and don't see the relationship going anywhere, so don't see the point in splashing out on presents.
Or they may just be so self-serving that they simply don't think your worth the money, time or effort and would rather just coldly cut their losses.
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Alternatively, your bah humbug shouting beau might want to avoid meeting your family or friends at a festive shindig, so they believe kicking you to the curb altogether is a better solution.
The holiday season itself could also have something to do with it - as some Scrooging scoundrels are just not that into their significant other and are eyeing up a fresh start when the clock strikes twelve on 31 December.
They don't want to be locking lips with you at midnight on New Year's Eve or be pulling crackers together over a Christmas feast, so they ditch you with plenty of time to find another potential suitor.
Whatever the reason may be, it's a downright cowardly way to split up with someone. It certainly leaves the dumpee feeling pretty down too.
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Wading through the emotions of the end of a relationship while your putting up the tree, attending Christmas parties and seeing your nearest and dearest isn't really ideal.
So it's important to pay attention to the behaviour of your current flame as the big day nears, as you can hopefully spot the signs they are planning a cold-hearted Scrooging.
If they become distant and unresponsive in the festive run up, it could be a vital sign you may about to be dumped.
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Cancelling outings, swerving calls, causing arguments and avoiding confirming holiday plans are all things to keep an eye out for.
But the best way to beat this dating trend is by getting ahead, so if you smell a Scrooge, you should confront your partner.
Sit down with them and discuss your feelings about your expectations over Christmas, as you could have got the wrong end of the stick.
Listen to their thoughts on experiencing the holiday season as a couple, but make sure you get to the bottom of what has been niggling away at you.
If they admit they were about to pull off a Scrooging, don't beg or plead for their love and fake festiveness - offer to help pack their bags if they can't even buy you a poxy present.
You will have much more fun celebrating Christmas with people who truly love you and know your worth more than saving a few quid.
Topics: Sex and Relationships, Christmas
Olivia Burke