The Myth of 'Mutually Assured Deception' in Dating
Brett identifies a cultural trend she calls 'mutually assured deception,' where both men and women avoid vulnerability in dating due to fear of being seen as gullible. This mutual defensiveness prevents genuine connection.
- Fear of vulnerability leads to emotional detachment.
- People adopt aloof personas to avoid getting hurt.
- This dynamic undermines authentic relationships.
“Two people neither of whom are prepared to open up fully in case they get hurt.”