Why TikTok’s ‘Ick List’ Trend Is So Harmful to Relationships
Let’s focus on what we enjoy about our partners instead.
Some trends on social media are cute. Others, not so much. I didn’t think I would be a fan of something called an “ick list trend” and guess what? I was right.
A recent TikTok trend has couples publicly sharing their “icks” — those minor habits or quirks that they find irritating about each other. Though it might seem like a harmless way to have a laugh, relationship expert Jesper Jensen from ExpertsEnAmour warns that pointing out your partner’s flaws, especially in front of an audience, could be much more damaging than you realize.
Jesper explains, “At first glance, sharing what annoys you might seem like an opportunity to bond over your quirks, but what often happens is that the relationship takes on a critical tone. When we focus on each other’s flaws, no matter how small, we begin to lose sight of the qualities that made us fall in love in the first place. This constant nitpicking can lead to feelings of resentment and can damage the open, positive communication needed for a healthy relationship.”
Jesper adds that, in his experience, many couples struggle to regain intimacy once they’ve established a habit of criticism. “When you start to repeatedly draw attention to…
