Futures

Exploring 2022 Dating Trends: Prioridating, Openness, and Sober Curious Culture, (from page 20220711.)

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Summary

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered dating trends, leading to a more intentional and mindful approach among singles. As people reevaluate their priorities, there’s a shift towards valuing deeper traits over superficial qualities. This trend, termed ‘prioridating,’ encourages daters to focus on one key priority, such as emotional safety or financial stability, rather than a long list of traits. Increased openness and vulnerability have emerged, with daters engaging in more meaningful conversations. Virtual dating remains popular, while there’s also a rise in sober curious dating, with many singles limiting alcohol consumption. Overall, these changes may foster longer, healthier relationships in the future.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Prioridating Daters are focusing on a single priority in potential partners. Shift from a long list of traits to prioritizing one key quality. Dating may become more focused and intentional, leading to deeper connections. The pandemic prompted self-reflection and reevaluation of relationship priorities. 4
Increased Vulnerability in Dating More people are openly discussing their needs and desires in dating. Transition from superficial conversations to deeper, meaningful discussions. Dating culture may foster greater honesty and transparency among partners. The pandemic forced individuals to confront their needs and preferences directly. 5
Sober Curious Dating A trend towards limiting alcohol consumption during dating. Shift from traditional dating norms involving alcohol to more mindful drinking habits. Dating may evolve to be more inclusive of sober individuals and healthier social interactions. Awareness of alcohol’s impact on health and relationships is rising. 4
Virtual Dating Persistence Continued use of virtual dates as a dating option post-pandemic. Shift from traditional in-person dates to a mix of virtual and in-person encounters. Virtual dating could become a standard part of the dating experience, regardless of pandemic restrictions. Ongoing concerns about safety and efficiency in dating remain relevant. 3
Mindfulness in Dating Daters are becoming more self-aware and intentional during encounters. Transition from casual dating to a more mindful approach considering personal priorities. Dating may prioritize emotional intelligence and self-awareness, enhancing relationship quality. The pandemic encouraged individuals to reflect on their values and needs in relationships. 4

Concerns

name description relevancy
Shifts in Dating Priorities The pandemic has led to a reevaluation of what qualities people prioritize in potential partners, focusing now on values over superficial traits. 4
Increased Vulnerability in Relationships There is a trend towards greater openness and vulnerability in dating, which can challenge traditional norms and expectations. 3
Impact of Virtual Dating The sustained popularity of virtual dating may alter social dynamics and how relationships are formed, potentially leading to less in-person interaction. 4
Mindfulness in Dating The rise of mindfulness practices during dating encourages deeper self-awareness but may also lead to higher expectations or pressures on individuals. 3
Sober Curious Movement A growing trend towards sober or reduced alcohol consumption during dates might change the social landscape of dating environments. 3
Economic Considerations in Relationships More singles are prioritizing partners with equal or higher income, indicating economic stability now influences relationship dynamics more than before. 4

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Prioridating Daters are focusing on a single priority, such as safety or emotional maturity, rather than superficial traits when seeking partners. 5
Increased Vulnerability People are more open and honest about their needs and desires, leading to deeper conversations and connections. 5
Mindful Dating Daters are encouraged to check in with themselves during dates, ensuring their priorities are being met. 4
Virtual Dating Persistence Virtual dates remain popular for safety, convenience, and time-saving reasons, even as in-person options increase. 4
Sober Curious Dating A growing trend of limiting alcohol consumption leads to more daters who are interested in sober or sober-curious partners. 4

Technologies

name description relevancy
Prioridating A trend where individuals focus on a single priority when seeking partners, emphasizing deeper values over superficial traits. 4
Virtual Dating Continued use of phone and video dates as a safe alternative to in-person meetings, increasing convenience and accessibility. 4
Sober Curious Dating A trend where individuals limit alcohol consumption while dating, leading to increased interest in sober or low-alcohol interactions. 3
Mindful Dating An approach where individuals check in with their emotional needs and priorities during dates to foster better connections. 4

Issues

name description relevancy
Prioridating A trend where daters focus on a single key priority in potential partners, moving away from superficial traits. 4
Increased Vulnerability in Dating Daters are having deeper conversations and being more open about their needs and desires in relationships. 5
Virtual Dating Persistence The continuation of phone and video dates as a preferred method due to safety concerns and time efficiency. 3
Sober (Curious) Dating An increase in individuals limiting alcohol consumption and seeking partners who are sober or reduce drinking. 4
Mindfulness in Dating Daters are practicing mindfulness and self-reflection during interactions to ensure alignment with personal priorities. 4