Rejection therapy: Here's why this is trending online AGAIN
Do you have an undying fear of rejection? This trend may help you ‘get over’ it. Here’s how.
Rejection therapy, a trend encouraging people to ask strangers odd requests likely to get a "no", has reemerged on TikTok in 2025.
@zee.mgazi agh this made my heart melt 😭😭😭🤍. day 17 of rejection therapy is definitely my favourite one so far. the next 365 days have been blessed 🥹 also thank you to everyone who sang for me 😭 #rejectiontherapy #exposuretherapy #dailyvlog ♬ original sound - zee mgazi
The goal is to face the initial fear of rejection or negative reactions, similar to exposure therapy. According to CNN, Michelle Panning, a coach for women on love, sex and relationships, did a 30-day rejection therapy challenge on TikTok last year. She asked strangers for hugs, to be a live mannequin, to nap in a display bed and to make her own sandwich behind a counter.
@sisanda_umali Day 1 Rejection Therapy. Join me on the journey to self confidence, embracing rejection and caring less what people think. Watch Day 2 - @Sisanda. Personal Growth Coach Inspired by @Maureen The Content Coach and @Sophie Jones #selflove #selfcare #mindset #motivation #confidence ♬ original sound - Sisanda Umali
Panning felt more comfortable approaching strangers after the challenge. Surprisingly, sometimes strangers said yes instead of no. "Wow, how much are we leaving on the table by simply not asking, because we're afraid of being rejected?" Panning said.
Jia Jiang, who popularised rejection therapy after a 100-day challenge, stressed the importance of ensuring both parties have fun and aren't pressured.
Dr. Taylor Wilmer, a psychologist specialising in exposure therapy, says rejection therapy can help those with lower anxiety levels feel more comfortable with rejection. However, precautions are necessary for safe interaction.
Rejection therapy shows people they can handle rejection and things aren't as bad as anxious brains predict. Sometimes, people say yes to odd requests. Even in rejections on TikTok, strangers are often nice about it.
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@sophie_jones111 This took some courage hahah #rejectiontherapy #flights ♬ original sound - Sophie Jones
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Image courtesy of TikTok