Some individuals have started questioning the longevity of their relationship based on their partner’s reaction to a simple request, thanks to the orange peel theory.
Relationship theories have been around for ages, but with the rise of social media and trending topics, it’s hard not to wonder if there’s any truth behind them.
The ‘orange peel theory’ has become a popular method for people to assess the health of their relationship, ultimately helping them determine if their partner is ‘the one’.
However, it’s important to remember that social media relationship advice should be taken with a grain of salt, not as a scientific method.
The theory appears to have originated from TikTok, where many creators have shared their thoughts on it.
As with any online topic, people have shared a variety of opinions, leading to heated debates in the comment sections.
This particular theory involves asking your partner to peel an orange for you or to get you an orange.
Yes, that’s all there is to it.
You then evaluate the strength or health of your relationship based on their response to this request.
According to numerous viral videos on the topic, a dismissive or argumentative response isn’t a positive sign.
In fact, many commenters on these videos would point out ‘red flags’ or suggest ‘dumping’ the partner if they ‘failed’ this straightforward test.
TikToker Anna Birmingham attempted to clarify why a partner’s reaction is so significant.
In her video, she explained: “Either way, their response is indicative of much bigger things than just merely peeling an orange because even just a super tiny thing like that reveals so much about their attitude toward you and your relationship.”
Given its popularity, relationship experts have also chimed in on the theory’s validity.
In a conversation with CNBC, relationship psychologist Lisa Marie Bobby advised against making broad judgments based solely on this test.
She stated: “The way that people do small things tends to be a holographic microcosm of how they did big things.
“[But] I would not make sweeping judgments about how a person peels an orange for you. There is possibly some validity [to the test], but make sure that it is not the only data point you are evaluating.”
Relationship and communication expert Rachel DeAlto also shared her perspective with the outlet, suggesting these tests might cause more harm than good.
“It’s not a red flag if your partner doesn’t peel an orange… I am not a fan of tests, they are designed to instigate insecurity.
“Relationships are complex and the strength of a partnership is better assessed by looking at deeper factors like ability to communicate, trust, respect, and vulnerability.”