Kittenfishing Alert! 4 Telltale Signs You're Being Deceived in Dating

Kittenfishing is an online trend in the realm of dating, akin to catfishing but less extreme. It involves presenting oneself in a slightly misleading manner, often through minor alterations to one's online profile. Unlike catfishing, where an individual pretends to be an entirely different person, kittenfishing involves small deceptions, like using older, more flattering photos or slightly misrepresenting one's age. These modifications, while not drastic, still create a misleading impression.

People engage in kittenfishing primarily because online dating can feel highly competitive. The anonymity of the internet allows individuals to showcase their best selves, often through selective self-presentation. Kittenfishers believe that if they can secure a first date, their charm, wit, intelligence, and personality will win over the person they are meeting. This approach is aimed at maximizing their chances of making a good first impression in person.

Kittenfishing differs from catfishing in its degree of deception. While catfishing involves creating an entirely false identity, kittenfishing includes minor alterations to enhance one's attractiveness. It's like putting a slight filter on reality rather than wearing a complete disguise. Although kittenfishing is somewhat dishonest, it doesn't reach the level of deception involved in catfishing, which is about pretending to be a different person entirely.

There are several signs to watch for if you suspect someone is kittenfishing. One indicator is inconsistency in their stories. If a person tells you one thing today and another thing tomorrow or avoids giving straight answers to simple questions, they might be hiding something. Another sign is a reluctance to share personal details about their job, education, or background. Genuine individuals typically don't mind sharing such information, but kittenfishers might avoid it to maintain their facade.

Additionally, if someone seems too perfect, it could be a red flag. Everyone has flaws, and if a person appears flawless online, they might be misrepresenting themselves. Real people have imperfections, so an overly idealistic online persona should be viewed with suspicion. Furthermore, closely examining their photos can reveal a lot. If their pictures are overly curated, heavily edited, or don't match how they represent themselves in real life, they might be kittenfishing.

It's also essential to self-reflect and consider whether you might be guilty of kittenfishing. Ask yourself if there would be any surprises for someone meeting you in person compared to your online profile. Consider how many little white lies you've told and whether the image you're portraying online accurately reflects who you truly are.

Kittenfishing often stems from the desire to put one's best foot forward, but it's crucial to embrace and present ourselves as we truly are, imperfections and all. Authenticity is key in building genuine connections, both online and offline.