The ‘Plastic Bag Theory’ Is Going Viral, and It’s Bad News for Some Relationships |
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The ‘Plastic Bag Theory’ Is Going Viral, and It’s Bad News for Some Relationships
Experts say the pattern can seem harmless at first, but over time, it may leave one person carrying far more than they realized.
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Apparently, there’s a new dating “theory” describing a pattern that’s been common for decades: a partner who seems laid-back and easygoing, but is really just passive and low-effort. Or, as the internet is calling it, the “Plastic Bag Theory.”
Men’s Coach Alessandro Frosali popularized this concept in an Instagram video, where he described the common occurrence of men offloading the mental load of a relationship to the woman. Of course, I’d like to be nuanced in this article: anyone, regardless of gender, can become “plastic bags” in their relationships.
And, look, I roll my eyes at every new “theory” as much as the next person. But the underlying concept here does have some validity to it.
Here’s what you should know about the Plastic Bag Theory—and some red flags that you’re partaking in it.
What Is the ‘Plastic Bag Theory’?
According to Dr. Deborah Bloom, psychologist, licensed marriage and family therapist, and founder and executive director of Thrive Counseling Center,........