Hily Survey Reveals Gen Z’s Push for Authenticity in Online Dating

A recent survey by Hily, a dating app focused on authenticity and presenting yourself as you are, shows that more than 90% of Gen Z daters value authenticity as a major part of their matches, with 4 out of 5 preferring people who embrace their imperfections. However, despite this desire for honesty, many Gen Z users struggle to present their true selves on dating apps.

The survey, conducted with 2,500 Gen Z users, revealed that 60% of women and 59% of men want to be completely honest in their profiles. Yet, anxiety, fear of judgment, and vulnerability often hold them back. Around 44% of women and 28% of men experience anxiety about being fully authentic, while 52% of men and 36% of women cite fear of rejection as a major challenge.

These insecurities take a toll on users’ confidence. 42% of respondents reported that rejection on dating apps negatively impacted their self-esteem, with over 60% feeling hesitant to pursue connections. Unrealistic expectations also play a role, as nearly half of all users feel pressured to alter their profiles to fit perceived standards.

Despite these challenges, the results point to a potential derailment of what we once saw as normal online dating culture – where Gen Z singles increasingly prioritize embracing imperfections and being genuine instead of seeking out a rare flawless match, signaling a broader change in dating app norms.