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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Helen Coffey

Why the ‘high-effort boyfriend’ is the next toxic dating trend

Flowers, and chocolates, and cuddles, oh my! The 'high-effort boyfriend' is the latest impossible relationship standard to hit social media - (Getty Images)

If you want to save your sanity, heed my advice: don’t look at social media this Christmas.

It’s not the wholesome snaps of happy families wearing matching ugly jumpers or inevitable engagement announcements you need to watch out for. No, it’s the inevitable and endless parade of smug, “boy dun good” posts from women bragging about their outstanding other halves that are destined to be the real joy zapper.

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