Love bombing is when someone overwhelms you with affection, praise, gifts, and attention early in a relationship—not because they genuinely love you, but to gain control.
It might look like:
- Constant texting and “I love you’s after just days
- Surprise gifts or trips right away
- Pressure to commit fast: “We’re soulmates. Let’s move in.”
- Constantly tell you how amazing, beautiful, or perfect you are: “You’re not like anyone I’ve ever met.”
- Talk about marriage, moving in, or having kids within weeks (or even days).
- They reflect your interests, values, or experiences like a mirror. You might think, “We’re the same person!” But it’s often a tactic to bond quickly and build false intimacy.
Once the emotional bond is formed, the love bomber may start:
- Withdrawing affection when you don’t comply
- Criticizing you
- Controlling your behavior
- Using guilt to keep you close
When I met my soon to be ex-husband I had no idea what love bombing was, I’m not sure it was even a term that was widely used 7 years ago. All of the things I described above, I experienced. From over the top compliments “You’re so perfect, we’re soulmates, I can’t live without you” to being pressured into moving in and getting married way to fast. I received a ridiculous amount of jewelry early on, cheap jewelry but jewelry nonetheless. I was promised things that never came to pass and eventually all of those things were used to control me and make me feel bad.
It’s not that affection or excitement is bad—but love bombing feels unearned. It skips the slow-building foundation of trust, communication, and mutual respect.
Tune in tomorrow for Part 2 – Why do abusers use love bombing?
A Day in the Life of Me 
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