What is Banksying? The internet’s latest and cruelest viral breakup trend — Here’s what it means

In times of love-bombing, ghosting and soft-launching situationships, a new breakup trend is emerging, and it might be the most heartless yet! This breakup phenomenon takes its inspiration from Banksy- an elusive street artist known for his provocative and politically charged artwork.?

Banksying involves a sudden, unexplained disappearance from a partner’s life, often leaving behind a symbolic gesture, cryptic message or no trace at all. Let’s delve into the exploration of how Banksying has come down to being the coldest breakup method of the year and why it’s gaining traction amongst the youth.?

We’ll unpack the psychology behind the emotional aftermath of those left behind and how this trend would reflect a shift in how people view modern relationships.

What is Banksying??

The term comes from the artist Banksy, who installed a mechanism in one of his paintings that would shred the canvas if it was removed from its original frame. | Credit: Canva

Banksying is a modern, emotionally charged way of ending a romantic relationship—characterized by a sudden and complete disappearance without any warning or explanation. Unlike traditional ghosting, banksying often involves a symbolic or dramatic gesture: a social media update, a cryptic post, or even a public statement signaling the end.

It’s a form of silent rejection wrapped in performance and ambiguity. According to recent statistics, one in four people has banksied a partner—an astonishing 25%—and the trend is only just beginning to take hold.

Why is Banksying becoming so popular?

The rise of casual dating and the digitalization of romantic interactions have created a fertile ground for emotionally detached exits. With dating apps and social media normalising quick connections and quicker endings, banksying has emerged as a way for people to withdraw without the emotional labour of honest conversation.

Online platforms have also played a key role in amplifying the phenomenon. People are increasingly sharing their experiences of being “banksied” on social media, leading to widespread awareness—and, in some cases, validation—of the trend.

Why is it trending?

Ending a relationship is always a painful experience that no one wants to go through | Credit: Canva

Several factors contribute to the growing popularity of banksying:

• Emotional Avoidance: It allows individuals to escape difficult conversations and uncomfortable emotional confrontations.
• Low Communication Skills: Those who struggle with vulnerability often see it as an easier option.
• False Empowerment: Some even perceive it as taking control, though often at the emotional expense of the other person.??

The toxic aftermath

Although banksying might appear harmless or even clever on the surface, it leaves a damaging emotional impact. The absence of closure can trigger a deep psychological response, including:

• Feelings of rejection, abandonment, and self-doubt
• Interruption of the healing process due to the sudden emotional cutoff
• Potential harm to future relationships, including trust issues
• A profound sense of powerlessness and confusion for the person left behind

“It’s the slow and silent death of the couple. You fall out of love quietly,” explains psychologist Lara Ferreiro, emphasising the subtle cruelty behind the act.

Mental health professionals warn that banksying can reinforce toxic dating habits and encourage avoidant behaviours—both of which are harmful in the long term.

Whether it stems from a fear of confrontation or is simply a trendier version of ghosting, banksying remains a deeply hurtful way to end a relationship. While it may carry an illusion of control or creativity, beneath the surface, it represents emotional negligence and avoidance.

In today’s fast-paced dating culture, banksying might seem like a modern solution—but in reality, it’s heartbreak disguised as art.

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