Nigerian social media users are increasingly turning to viral TikTok relationship tests to measure their partners' affection, but experts warn these trends might be doing more harm than good to modern relationships.
The Viral Tests Taking Over Nigerian TikTok
Across Nigeria, from Lagos to Abuja, young couples are experimenting with relationship tests that have gone viral on TikTok. The platform has become flooded with content featuring various theories that claim to reveal a partner's true feelings through simple, everyday actions.
The Bird Theory suggests that if you mention something small like a bird flying by and your partner acknowledges it, they're emotionally tuned in. If they ignore it, TikTok users claim they're emotionally unavailable. This test is based on a 1990s psychology study about shared attention moments.
The Door Test, popularized by the resurfacing of the 1993 film A Bronx Tale, measures thoughtfulness through simple gestures like opening doors. Partners who perform these acts are considered chivalrous and attentive, while those who don't are labeled selfish.
The Orange Peel Theory has particularly captured Nigerian users' attention. This test involves asking your partner to peel an orange for you. If they do it without complaining, it's seen as proof of genuine love and willingness to go above and beyond.
Why Nigerians Are Obsessed With Relationship Testing
These tests have gained massive popularity because they make the abstract concept of love feel measurable and concrete. In a world full of mixed signals and dating uncertainties, they offer quick validation about relationship status.
Nigerian creators have especially embraced the Bare Minimum Trend, which calls out partners who are praised for doing basic things like replying to texts or remembering birthdays - actions that should be normal in any relationship.
Other tests gaining traction include the Barbie test, where women are encouraged to dump partners who find the movie or its feminist themes ridiculous. Each test appears harmless initially, but many users are taking them seriously enough to make relationship decisions based on the results.
The Psychological Impact on Nigerian Relationships
Relationship experts are concerned about the emotional cost of constant testing. The continuous vigilance creates relationship anxiety and puts partners in a state of hyper-awareness focused on finding flaws rather than building genuine connections.
These tests oversimplify complex human behavior. A partner might fail the bird test because they're stressed about work demands common in Nigerian cities like Lagos, not because they don't care. They might forget to peel an orange but remember important family stories or support career ambitions.
The constant testing environment creates suspicion rather than safety in relationships. When partners feel they're always being evaluated, it can damage the trust and openness that healthy relationships require.
Healthier Alternatives to Viral Tests
Instead of relying on TikTok tests, relationship counselors suggest more constructive approaches for Nigerian couples. Direct communication about emotional needs provides clearer insights than hoping partners will pass unspoken tests.
Observing patterns of behavior over time gives a more accurate picture than isolated moments captured in viral tests. Valuing private relationship satisfaction over public perception and embracing imperfection as part of genuine human connection are crucial for lasting partnerships.
If you've been feeling neglected or sensing relationship issues, having honest conversations rather than setting traps provides more meaningful solutions. While these TikTok tests might seem entertaining, building real connections requires moving beyond social media trends and focusing on authentic communication.
