KERA's Think Why singles are giving up on dating
Nov 25, 2025
Join Jonathan Rosenthal, international editor at The Economist, as he dives into the rising trend of singlehood among young adults. He explores why many are giving up on dating, linking it to social isolation and economic pressures. Discover how dating apps are complicating the search for compatible partners and the role of education in diminishing matchmaking prospects. Jonathan also highlights the complex dynamics of gender differences in dating, the effects of single men on society, and how changing social norms are reshaping relationships.
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Widespread Rise In Singlehood
- Singlehood has doubled among 25–34 year olds in the US over five decades and rises across rich countries.
- The decline includes less dating, socializing, and even less sex, signalling broader social isolation.
Child Costs Reduce Incentive To Couple
- Reluctance to have children and higher living costs discourage settling down and marriage.
- Economic barriers to supporting children reduce incentives to form long-term partnerships.
Happiness Masks Unmet Desire
- Many women report being happy single, reflecting real emancipation and choice.
- Yet a large share of singles still want partners or have stopped trying for discouraging reasons like low self-worth.