Onewayism

Onewayism is a term that has emerged to describe a specific approach to relationships or societal interactions where communication or effort is perceived as being unilateral. This means that one party is consistently investing energy, expressing feelings, or initiating actions, while the other party is largely passive, unresponsive, or unreciprocating. It is characterized by an imbalance where the expectations of one individual are not being met by the actions or engagement of another.

The concept can manifest in various contexts, including romantic relationships, friendships, family dynamics, and professional settings. In a romantic relationship, onewayism might involve one partner always planning dates, initiating conversations about feelings, or making sacrifices, while the other partner rarely reciprocates or shows equivalent effort. In a friendship, it could mean one person consistently reaching out, organizing meetups, and offering support, with the other friend seldom taking the initiative or reciprocating the same level of engagement.

The experience of onewayism can lead to feelings of frustration, resentment, exhaustion, and a sense of being undervalued. It often stems from a perceived lack of mutual investment and a disconnect in emotional or practical reciprocity. While the term itself is informal and not a formally recognized psychological or sociological concept, it serves as a shorthand to describe a common interpersonal dynamic that can cause distress and lead to the breakdown of relationships if not addressed. Addressing onewayism typically involves open communication about expectations and a re-evaluation of the balance of effort within the relationship.