ektoring

Ektoring is a term that has emerged in certain online communities to describe the act of a person, typically a man, becoming excessively concerned or invested in the lives of women they do not know personally, often through social media. This behavior can manifest as excessive liking of old posts, frequent commenting, or engaging in detailed discussions about the women's personal lives with others who also follow them. It is important to distinguish ektoring from general online interaction or support. The key characteristic is an unsolicited and often disproportionate level of attention and surveillance directed towards individuals without a pre-existing personal relationship.

The term itself is a portmanteau, combining "ek-" which is a prefix in some languages indicating something outside or external, and "monitoring." It suggests an external and often intrusive form of observation. Ektoring is generally viewed negatively, as it can be perceived as a violation of privacy and can contribute to a feeling of being watched or stalked, even if no direct contact is made. While not a formally recognized psychological term, it serves as a descriptive label for a specific type of online behavior that causes discomfort and concern for those on the receiving end. The motivations behind ektoring can vary, ranging from perceived admiration to obsessive tendencies, but the impact on the individual being "ektored" is often negative.