Let’s Talk About The Orange Peel Theory (And Its Setbacks)

Once again, social media came up with another way to test a relationship: The Orange Peel Theory.

Who would’ve known oranges could somewhat tell if a relationship was going okay or not?

Let’s delve a little deeper into this theory through this short guide.

What is the Orange Peel Theory?

According to Time, this theory exhibits that “the small acts of service, and a partner’s willingness to perform them, indicate a healthy relationship.”

Verywell Mind also adds that this theory can showcase the strength of a relationship. What lies in store here is if whether or not your partner will give you a peeled orange or not when you ask them for one.

It’s commonly known and spread all over Tiktok, in which the main takeaway here is if your partner is capable of doing small favors effortlessly. Which in turn, can affect how they help you when bigger requests come to the surface.

There are mixed reactions to this theory, from the good to the bad. Many of them involve the target partner being unaware of the implications when they’re asked to bring an orange. Nor is it clear if they should bring it peeled or as is.

Different Scenarios of the Orange Peel Theory

Check out this section to witness the likely scenarios one can face when testing this theory out.

1 Peeling the orange before handing it to you

Such a task can be an inconvenience if you’re busy with other things or your nails are too long for it. In other cases, others don’t like the task in general. As a result, they ask someone else to do it for them. 

To them, it’s an act of love if their partner gives them a peeled orange to spare them from the trouble. Even if it’s short!

As a result, the partner who requested it feels oh so loved, cherished, and valued. Not only do they get to eat the orange easily, but feel seen because of the extra effort their partner put in for them.

2 Giving you the orange as is

Sure, they gave you what you asked for. No complains, no questions. However, a part of you feels down because it wishes the orange to be peeled already. As a result, it means that your relationship is not going in the right direction.

In some scenarios, the person who requested throws a fit over it, wherein their partner shrugs and tells them to do it themselves. While that can create tension, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the relationship is bad. You just didn’t communicate properly. Regardless, serving an orange as is in line with this theory suggests that your partner didn’t bother to put in extra credit.

Setbacks of The Orange Peel Theory to Look Out For

Be aware of these hindrances when testing the orange peel theory out.

1 It’s not an accurate indication of a healthy relationship.

Are you really gonna trust people online to tell you whether or not your relationship is beneficial? Only you would know what makes it good, from love languages and answering your diverse needs and desires.

2 It negatively tests and tricks your partner.

Doing such a thing isn’t the right way to show that you care for someone. You’re supposed to support each other, not having malicious intentions with one another. And if they “fail”, it makes you forget all the other authentically good things they have done for you.

3 You’re letting social media dictate your relationship.

Which is not cute. This can only bring destruction and strain.

Enthusiastic Ways To Build a Healthier Relationship

Improve your relationship instead of applying this theory through this informative section.

1 Always communicate with one another.

In terms of an orange, be clear on whether you want it peeled or not. Even if it’s sweet if they know how you like your oranges, it’s still ideal to express your needs. Getting mad over the fact they didn’t “read your mind” can only lead to unnecessary conflict.

2 Learn each other’s love language.

Peeling someone’s oranges is linked with acts of services. If that’s how you like to receive love, it helps to tell your partner during the early phases of the relationship. The same goes for the other love languages out there! 

That way, you always feel cared for, avoid any relationship troubles, and understand each other better.

3 Don’t compare your relationship to others.

Every relationship is unique. Just because someone peels oranges for someone they love while your partner doesn’t mean they don’t love. After all, love is expressed in various ways. Don’t take every loving moment your partner does for granted over an orange.

Takeaway

The orange peel theory may be a playful way to see where your relationship stands. However, it can also invite unhealthy behaviors and thoughts that can create conflict and tension. Hence, it’s best to take this theory lightly and improve how you communicate your needs and desires to your partner.

For more relationship-related guides like this, check us out on the Lauvblog here.