Gen Z is transforming dating in a way that no previous generation has done before — by prioritising authentic connections through online dating. Image Source: Roserodionova/Freepik
Gen Z is transforming dating in a way that no previous generation has done before — by prioritising authentic connections through online dating.
Young people no longer see the need for filtered photos or perfect camera angles, in fact, they claim they know exactly what they’re looking for when swiping through dating apps.
According to Tinder’s new report The Future of Dating 2023, 18-25 year olds are looking for authenticity.
They want quality dating profiles: at least four photos, three interests, four descriptors, seven-worded bios, and the verified feature.
The data reveals that this generation is more than 30% less likely to ghost someone than 33+ year olds, and instead are open to giving matches a chance by allowing at least two to three dates.
Not only that, but they are more interested in qualities like “loyalty (79%), respect (78%) and open-mindedness (61%) over looks (56%)”.
The Gen Z population is “welcoming all that is awkward and weird about yourself” as a crucial element to building authentic and honest relationships with potential partners.
Tinder’s report claims that seeing a mental health professional and healing from past traumas is great way to appeal to matches.
Young singles are naming mental health as their top priority and are working towards personal growth and confidence to be the best version of themselves.
This might be why this generation is rejecting norms around drinking culture.
For the 18-25 year olds that were surveyed across the US, the UK, Canada and Australia, 88% of singles were interested in going on a sober date this year, with 52% planning to drink less alcohol or none at all in 2023.
Tinder members are not shying away from proclaiming that they don’t drink or only drink occasionally on their profiles — yet another departure from previous generations.
“Call it what you want – sober dating, dry dating, sober curious dating – this is becoming less of a trend and more of a lifestyle choice for Gen Z, with the ability to form a more genuine connection (42%), safety (40%) and quality of conversation (39%) topping the list of motivators towards sobriety,” the report states.
Gen Z will continue to break barriers, according to Tinder’s global expert in relationships, Paul C. Brunson.
He believes that Gen Z will make way for a rise of empathetic men with healthy masculinity, meaningful connections, work-life balance, open-minded and inclusive dating, and a generation with fewer but more successful marriages.
