Comment FRIEND for the words, tips, and a decision checklist that shows you how to respond, when to step back, and how to stop carrying the emotional work in your friendships in 2026. Comment OUTFIT for links. Mean girl behavior is breadcrumbing. She reaches out just enough to keep you waiting, wondering, and over investing, often when she senses you pulling away. There’s contact, but no repair, follow-through, or real sense of where you stand. Whether intentional or not, the behavior keeps the power with her, maintaining access without closeness or accountability. As for the 3 Things Mean Girl Behavior is NOT… It’s NOT “being nice,” it’s avoidance. Not replying to texts over time isn’t kindness. Staying quiet can feel more polite than saying, “I’m not interested.” But silence feels kind to them, not to you. It’s NOT “being busy” or “going through something.” People who are busy or struggling don’t disappear and reappear without repair. They might answer late but when they do, it’s warm. They don’t leave you guessing where you stand. They come back and say something like, “Sorry I went quiet, I’ve been going through a lot.” It’s NOT ADHD or Neurodivergence. Interest is there but follow through is messy. ADHD and neurodivergence can make replies inconsistent or delayed but the care is still there. They forget and come back, then apologize for the delay. It’s unorganized, not intentional.