Dating Dating IQ 5

Question 1

What is 'cushioning' in modern dating terminology?

Accepted Answer

Keeping backup romantic options while in a relationship as emotional insurance

Answer

Cushioning means maintaining flirtatious contact with others while in a relationship to soften the potential blow of a breakup.

Question 2

What does research suggest is the most effective way to make a good first impression on a date?

Accepted Answer

Showing genuine curiosity about the other person by asking thoughtful questions

Answer

Studies on liking show that people feel most positively about others who show genuine interest in them through attentive questions.

Question 3

What does the term 'slow fade' describe in dating?

Accepted Answer

Gradually reducing contact over time instead of having a direct breakup conversation

Answer

The slow fade is a passive avoidance strategy where someone gradually becomes less responsive as a way to end things without a direct conversation.

Question 4

In dating, what does 'benching' someone mean?

Accepted Answer

Keeping someone as a backup option — staying in touch without committing — in case a better option doesn't work out

Answer

Benching means keeping someone warm on the sidelines — engaged enough to not walk away — without making them a priority.

Question 5

What is 'negging' and why is it considered a problematic dating tactic?

Accepted Answer

Giving backhanded compliments to undermine confidence as a manipulation tactic — it's harmful and disrespectful

Answer

Negging exploits insecurity to create false intimacy and is considered a manipulative, disrespectful technique rooted in pickup artist culture.

Dating Practice Test