Study: How Singles are Becoming More Self-Aware

A new survey from dating app Plenty of Fish has found that singles value self-love just as much as they desire romantic love. 60% of singles say they are investing in improving themselves for future relationships.

The survey was conducted in partnership with non-profit A Call to Men, which focuses on promoting healthy respectful manhood.

It found that singles, especially men, are becoming more self-aware when it coems ot identifying issues in past relationships. 73% of men and 66% of women see themselves as the ‘anti-hero’ or problem in past relationships. 

36% of men admitted being selfish or uncompromising in a past relationship, leading to an eventual break up. Additionally, 21% of men admitted to being jealous and insecure in a past relationship, leading to a break up.

The study also found that men are more likely to think they’re to blame for bad dates, but also more willing to give things a second chance.

To better themselves, 77% of singles believe that self-improvement generally can improve their dating life. 66% of men and 55% of women are taking steps to better themselves, including going to therapy, exercising, sleeping more, consuming self-improvement content, and prioritising self-care.

“Our goal in partnering with A Call to Men on this research is to foster new conversations around healthy dating behaviours, and we are encouraged to see that these topics already resonate with singles,” said Shannon Smith, Public Relations Director at Plenty of Fish. 

“When people are willing to build on their previous experiences and take initiative to be compassionate communicators, better listeners, and generally more self-aware, we believe it leads to better, more welcoming dating experiences for everyone”, Smith shared.

“At A Call to Men, we believe that healthy, respectful manhood is key to creating a more equitable and just society,” said Ted Bunch, Chief Development Officer, A Call to Men. 

“We’re proud to partner with Plenty of Fish on this study, highlighting the importance of self-awareness in dating. By promoting personal growth for all individuals, we can help create healthier and happier relationships for everyone”, Bunch added.

The survey was conducted among 2,000 single or casually dating Gen Z and Millennial Ameircans in January 2023.