For those of you feeling depressed about the state of dating today – that is, if you’re convinced that most women are flaky and most guys are jerks who only want to hook up, you might want to sit down for this news.
Singles in America are looking for real and lasting love. More so than you ever imagined. Seriously.
On Saturday, Dr. Helen Fisher (anthropologist and dating expert extraordinaire) announced the results of Match.com’s annual #SinglesinAmerica study, where they surveyed over 5,600 singles from across the country to find out their views on love and dating today. And to be honest, despite the pervasiveness of Tinder and the perception that everyone is just looking to hook up, people are incredibly optimistic about love.
Case in point: men are much more romantic than women. More men than women believe in love at first sight, and more women than men are afraid of commitment. “Technology is dramatically changing how we court, but it can’t change the brain systems for romance and attachment. And today’s singles are setting a high bar for courtship and marriage,” said Dr. Fisher.
Some interesting stats for you:
- 31% of singles met their last first date online, compared to 25% who met through a friend. The times are changing, folks – so if you’re not online, better get on it.
- People like texting, but they still hate poor grammar and spelling – so proof your work!
- Social media can be rough for dating, so be careful what you post – your dates don’t like it when you air emotional drama for all your friends and followers to see, or post too many selfies, or if you ask them to unfriend their exes. 53% of single women and 44% of single men have posted at least one selfie in the past year. (I’m guessing they posted a lot more than “at least one.”)
- There is a “Clooney Effect” taking place – many men want smart, powerful women. 87% of single men would date a woman who makes ‘considerably more’ money and who is considerably better-educated and more intellectual than themselves; 86% seek a woman who is confident and self-assured, and 39% would also make a long-term commitment to a woman who is 10 or more years older.
- Women prefer their independence. 90% want more personal space, 93% want to pursue their own hobbies and interests, and 64% want more time with friends. Most women prefer to wait 1-2 years before moving in, whereas men prefer to move faster – 6-12 months of dating before shacking up.
- Namaste, guys. Single men who do yoga have had more sexual partners than those participating in any other kind of exercise. Yogi men aged 20-50 have had an average of 17 partners, while the average is 10 partners for men in this age group.
- Funny is the new sexy. 90% of men and 97% of women consider sense of humor just as important as physical attractiveness.
To sum up Dr. Fisher’s words: If there was ever a time in history where we could make good, lasting relationships that time is now.
Men and women are looking for connection, love and long-term relationships (as well as some independence)! So maybe it’s time to give online dating another chance.
About Kelly Seal
Kelly is a freelance writer based in Los Angeles, CA. She blogs about dating, relationships, personal growth and what "healthy living" means to her. You can follow her on Google+, Twitter @kellyseal or through her website www.kellyseal.com.
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