Zombie-ing: The Ghosting Trend That Shows Modern Dating's Lack of Accountability

Bumble’s 2025 Dating Trends Survey reveals that modern dating isn’t just evolving, it’s recycling. People are circling back to old connections with a new level of casual disregard. One trend standing out is zombie-ing, where someone who ghosted you suddenly reappears, acting as if nothing happened. It reflects a shift in dating culture where emotional accountability is often replaced by convenience and fleeting curiosity.

"When they vanish without a word but reappear like nothing happened—accountability was never part of the plan."

Zombie-ing is when someone who previously disappeared without explanation aka ghosted, suddenly resurfaces in your life, usually through a text, social media interaction, or casual message. It’s like emotional whiplash, leaving you wondering why they vanished in the first place and why they’re back now. Unlike genuine reconnection, zombie-ing is typically lazy and thoughtless, lacking any acknowledgment of their previous disappearance. It’s not about rekindling a real connection; it’s about testing if the door is still open.

People engage in zombie-ing for a mix of reasons rooted in ego, boredom, and emotional convenience. Sometimes it’s driven by loneliness or a temporary drop in their dating prospects, prompting them to revisit past connections. Other times, it’s about seeking validation—checking if they still have access to your attention without the effort of rebuilding trust. It can also stem from emotional immaturity, where they avoid confronting their past behavior and prefer the ease of slipping back in as if nothing happened.

What people should know about zombie-ing is that it’s rarely about you and almost always about them. It’s a low-investment move to satisfy curiosity or regain a sense of control. The best way to handle it is to recognize the pattern for what it is and decide if re-engaging serves your emotional well-being. You don’t owe anyone who disappeared without explanation a second chance, especially if they return without accountability.