Dating tip: Beware of those on the rebound

How do you know if someone is on the rebound?

A person might be considered on the rebound if he or she becomes involved in a serious relationship that shortly follows the ending of a previous one.

And if the person was dumped -- especially if they never saw it coming -- it only amplifies feelings of wanting to get with someone new to get their mind off the whole ordeal.

If you are dating someone who is rebounding, you may question if he or she is capable of emotional attachment or if you are, instead, simply a substitute for love that was lost.

It can be especially hurtful when you sense that the person you're with isn't entirely over their ex.

They might bring him or her up in conversations, whether they're mentioning how terrible the ex was or, even worse, comparing you both ("John was so much tidier than you are.")

You may also take notice of the fact that they continue to hold on to and revisit photo albums, cards, and gifts that the ex gave them, though your partner tries to assure you those objects no longer mean anything.

If you sense that this person has been unable to shake themselves loose of their ex, it may be time for a heart-to-heart.

It's likely he or she isn't deliberately trying to use you. They may genuinely care about you, but perhaps they now realize that (1) they jumped into a new relationship a bit too soon (2) they need more time to sort through these unresolved feelings.

But you also have the option at that point of moving on. It can't be pleasant to feel as though you're playing second fiddle to someone who is no longer in your partner's life.

And if you discover that you are in fact being used to make the ex jealous or are serving as a stand-in until your partner reconciles with them, don't waste another minute. Kick them out of your life at once and find yourself someone who will value you.

Having their heart broken doesn't give anyone license to turn around and do the same to someone else. Relationships built on lies and shoddy communication eventually go down the tubes.

Don't let the thrill of a new relationship cloud your judgment. If your gut tells you to end it, act accordingly.

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