One of the worst ways to handle a breakup is to simply not mention that it happened. Women, in particular, are familiar with this popular technique, wherein their boyfriends simply vanish without having the decency to mention that the relationship is over.

Obviously it’s over, otherwise you’d still be nuzzling on the couch and calling each other goofy names. Instead, you’re sending text messages into a black hole and spending your valuable time wondering, worrying, wearying.

• Been on the giving or receiving end of this technique? Gripe, lament, commisserate, bitch--or explain yourself--here.

Is this a decent thing to do? No. Do people do it anyway? You betcha. In fact, the Psychic Breakup (I’m thinking of sleeping with a number of women between one and ten) seems to be growing in popularity. Of course, it’s got a ways to go if it wants to compete with the Big Switcheroo, a long-standing breakup technique in which an old partner is slowly eased out of the picture and a new one eased in until suddenly, you realize you’ve officially become number two.

“I think it’s a mistake to date when you’re still involved with another person and have neglected to tell them you’re no longer interested,” says Sonia, 29. “It demonstrates lack of resolve, immaturity, and is just across-the-board disturbing. Which is not to say I haven’t done it myself.”