Pebbling: How Memes Became the New Language of Love, and What Penguins Have to Do With It

The Internet has long been a part of our lives and never ceases to amaze us with new trends that appear with enviable regularity. Recently, experts have identified a new phenomenon that is familiar to many, but previously had no name. It was called pebbling - from the English word "pebble", which means "stone". This is a new way to show sympathy and express feelings using Internet memes.

Pebbling is used by penguins. These birds give small stones to a potential partner to win his attention. This seemingly insignificant gift plays an important role: the penguins then use the stones they receive to build a nest.

For people communicating online, virtual gifts play the role of pebbles. The object of affection is sent funny pictures, videos or memes. By sharing something interesting with a person, you let them know that you thought of them when you saw funny or useful content.

This creates an emotional connection based on the positive emotions that memes evoke. It is also important that someone wanted to share this content. Psychotherapists have already begun to study this phenomenon and have come to the conclusion that pebbling is a new love language. It is firmly entering the lives of people who actively use the Internet.

But he also warns that relationships cannot be built on stones, either real or “virtual.” Exchanging memes is useful at the initial stage or as a supplement to established communication, but it does not replace real meetings and conversations.

Once a strong connection has been established with your partner, it is important to continue sending "pebbles" from time to time. If you have been doing this regularly for a long time and then suddenly stop, your partner may become anxious and suspicious that something has gone wrong in the relationship.

Psychologists also advise to be careful when choosing memes. The same video or picture can cause different reactions in different people: for some it will be cute, and for others it will cause unpleasant memories. Therefore, pebbling, instead of bringing people closer, can push them away.