Gen Z Take A Selective Approach to Modern Dating
New research suggests Gen Z is the pickiest dating generation yet, with a growing preference for what’s being called conscious coupling – a trend where singles prioritize deep compatibility before even agreeing to a first date.
According to data from various sources such as the dating app Happn, a striking 90% of Gen Z users ask potential matches about key personal topics, including political views, finances, and long-term goals, before committing to meeting in person. In contrast, only 6% of Gen X daters engage in such discussions beforehand, with most preferring to gauge compatibility over time.
This shift reflects a broader transformation in modern dating, where digital-first connections have largely replaced traditional in-person interactions. With dating apps offering endless options, younger singles are increasingly selective, preferring to vet potential partners early rather than risk wasting time and money on an incompatible date.
“In today’s world, relationships continue to evolve—both from the point of first contact, and after. Younger generations are being shaped by the rise of dating apps and new ways to meet people, and crucially, they value their time, money, and energy more than ever before,” says Claire Rénier, a dating expert at Happn.
Among the top topics Gen Z singles prioritize, 27% want to discuss long-term potential, 24% focus on future family plans, and 19% consider religious beliefs important. Other considerations include finances (14%), past relationships (16%), and even medical history (6%).
While this hyper-selective approach may seem daunting, it also suggests that modern daters are seeking deeper, more intentional connections – potentially leading to stronger, more aligned relationships in the long run.