Penguins have inspired a new social media love language called "pebbling."

Psychologists and social media users unveil the driving forces behind the latest communication craze.

Penguins have inspired a new social media love language called "pebbling."
Penguins have inspired a new social media love language called "pebbling."

Some humans are taking their relationship cues from penguins.

Some experts claim that "pebbling" is a social media trend where individuals send memes, videos, or links to connect or express affection towards others.

Social media influencers have claimed that the name was inspired by Gentoo penguins, who leave pebbles in their mates' nests as a sign of affection.

According to Dr. Adam Grant, a psychologist at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton business school, sending memes, links, and videos to others is not a simple act; it implies that you are thinking of them and wish for them to experience the same happiness you are feeling.

""Pebbling, or the act of giving pebbles to potential partners, is a way of showing care and making a connection," he explained."

Teen and woman texting
A relationship trend called "pebbling" involves sending memes, videos or links to a person to connect or show affection, according to some relationship experts. (iStock)

Planet Chronicle Digital reached out to Grant for further comment.

Some young couples believe that pebbling is a unique way to show their significant others that they are thinking of them and strengthen their connection.

Pebbling is a fun and easy way to express affection, according to Abby and Cooper, a young couple in their 20s from Maryland. They requested anonymity for privacy reasons.

A child holds an iPhone at an Apple store on Sept. 25, 2015 in Chicago.
The new "pebbling" trend on social media is based on penguins dropping off pebbles with potential partners, a psychologist said. (AP Photo/Kiichiro Sato, File)

Cooper shared with Planet Chronicle Digital that he sends Instagram Reels related to Abby's past actions and TikToks about murder mystery shows and cute animals to pique her interest.

The young couple said pebbling helps them stay connected when they are apart.

"Pebbling is an act of care. Every pebble is a bid for connection."

Abby informed Planet Chronicle Digital that she would consistently share new restaurants, foods, and recipes she discovers with Coop.

"A food meme or TikTok can be a way to suggest trying something together and bring us closer because we both love food."

Pebbling can also strengthen bonds between adults and their children, according to relationship experts, in addition to being a love language for couples.

A family group chat is a great way to strengthen relationships with teenagers when in-person communication between parents and children becomes less frequent and challenging, according to licensed family therapist Christine MacInnis in Torrance, California, as shared with Planet Chronicle Digital.

woman texting
Sharing memes, links, GIFs or videos gives parents the opportunity to show their children that they're thinking of them, an expert noted. (CyberGuy.com)

She stated that it feels safer and less intense to kids who grew up in a digital age.

The therapist stated that sharing short video clips can foster a sense of connection between two individuals.

Her daughter, who is 17 years old, said she likes this kind of bonding with her family.

The teen stated in a text to Planet Chronicle Digital that they find it enjoyable to exchange Tik Toks because it allows for a more entertaining and sophisticated form of communication.

Social workers have reported that pebbling is an effective communication tool in the neurodivergent community, according to Planet Chronicle Digital.

African penguin chicks at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco
Two African penguin chicks are seen in their enclosure at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. The name of the pebbling trend was apparently inspired by penguins leaving pebbles at the nests of their mates as a form of affection. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

Pebbling, a technique that has been successful in the neurodivergent community and is now used to describe demonstrative gestures in other relationships, can also improve communication between parents and their teens, according to Dr. Elissa Giffords, a licensed clinical social worker and professor and director of Long Island University’s Social Work Program in Brookville, New York.

Parents can express their love for their children by sharing memes, links, GIFs or videos, according to her observation.

Giffords stated that even if their children reacted negatively to what they perceived as goofy, the underlying message of "I am thinking about you" was still conveyed.

The expert advised that while pebbling can show affection, empathy, and concern, it's crucial to consider the timing and quantity of messages.

"Sharing memes and online reels … is a wonderful way to foster connection with teens during times when face-to-face communication becomes more tricky."

Giffords advised parents to be cautious not to give too much when giving their "pebbles."

She suggested that pebbling could be an enjoyable activity for both parties and could lead to a later discussion.

Some people may find it challenging because there is less communication when sending memes instead of having face-to-face conversations, as one woman pointed out.

Couples and parents to Planet Chronicle Digital advised that while pebbling can strengthen a relationship, it should not be the sole form of communication between the two people.

by Amy McGorry

lifestyle

Drinkers may be encouraged to explore alternative beverages due to the link between alcohol use and cancer.

Drinkers may be encouraged to explore alternative beverages due to the link between alcohol use and cancer.

lifestyle
In a Roman grave, archaeologists unearth a 1,600-pound coffin containing unusual items: 'An exceptional discovery'

In a Roman grave, archaeologists unearth a 1,600-pound coffin containing unusual items: 'An exceptional discovery'

lifestyle
10 Tips for Keeping Your Dorm Room Tidy

10 Tips for Keeping Your Dorm Room Tidy

lifestyle
Archaeologists are baffled by the discovery of a hoard of ancient Roman coins: 'Extremely rare'

Archaeologists are baffled by the discovery of a hoard of ancient Roman coins: 'Extremely rare'

lifestyle
Nuclear plant site uncovers 1,000-year-old treasure: 'Remarkable discovery'

Nuclear plant site uncovers 1,000-year-old treasure: 'Remarkable discovery'

lifestyle
Enhance your indoor air quality with these 9 effective products.

Enhance your indoor air quality with these 9 effective products.

lifestyle
TSA Red Flags: Everyday Behaviors by Flight Passengers

TSA Red Flags: Everyday Behaviors by Flight Passengers

lifestyle
During a flag retreat ceremony at Disney's Magic Kingdom, a 100-year-old WWII veteran was honored.

During a flag retreat ceremony at Disney's Magic Kingdom, a 100-year-old WWII veteran was honored.

lifestyle
The founder of LA Dream Center is providing aid to homeless individuals during the wildfires in California by accepting donations and offering housing.

The founder of LA Dream Center is providing aid to homeless individuals during the wildfires in California by accepting donations and offering housing.

lifestyle
Nine supplements to start the New Year with improved health.

Nine supplements to start the New Year with improved health.

lifestyle
The baptism of Jesus unveils 4 crucial aspects of his identity and purpose.

The baptism of Jesus unveils 4 crucial aspects of his identity and purpose.

lifestyle
Achieve your New Year's health objectives with these Walmart picks.

Achieve your New Year's health objectives with these Walmart picks.

lifestyle
6 Black-owned businesses that deserve your support

6 Black-owned businesses that deserve your support

lifestyle
Boost your self-care routine with Walmart's celebrity-approved wellness products

Boost your self-care routine with Walmart's celebrity-approved wellness products

lifestyle
After 2025, Girl Scouts will discontinue these cookie flavors.

After 2025, Girl Scouts will discontinue these cookie flavors.

lifestyle
Hosting a party on Inauguration Day: How to do it right

Hosting a party on Inauguration Day: How to do it right

lifestyle
In Viking graves, a 1200-year-old treasure and an unusual Christian artifact are discovered by metal detectorists.

In Viking graves, a 1200-year-old treasure and an unusual Christian artifact are discovered by metal detectorists.

lifestyle
Building a Wardrobe: 10 Essentials for Amazon's Winter Sale

Building a Wardrobe: 10 Essentials for Amazon's Winter Sale

lifestyle