Either through memes or comments I keep seeing this sentiment pop-up from time to time. And I’m wondering what your (yes, you) consensus is on it.
I for one am too pessimistic to do anything with potential hints. Like even if there is a good chance I still just don’t want to risk it.
I agree with what everyone has already said and…
Some people flirt to practice, or see if they can get a response, to measure their own self worth, to see “if they still got it”, as a measure of power, or something to do when bored.
The game ends when the target takes the next step, and then it’s no longer fun, and now ‘creepy’. You can see similar behavior on dating apps with people who swipe yes, but then reject people in conversation.
So now not only do people have to recognize the hint, they also have to figure out the intention of the hint giver… i.e. was this a serious hint?