When something is “trending,” we often believe it’s for good reason. I mean, why else would it gain so much popularity? Why else would so many people be following suit?
But not everything “trendy” is worth pursuing. Have you heard about some of today’s dating trends, such as ghosting and situationship? Yeah, no, thank you.
Still, even some of the most well-intended concepts or dating advice can become toxic. For example, while someone might recommend you “date yourself” and “be single for a year,” (which is a beautiful concept at its core!), this could prevent some from actually opening their hearts to the opportunity for love and connection—even when it’s right in front of them.
How Dating Trends Are Sabotaging Your Chance at Love
As a dating trends writer, I strive to stay informed about the latest developments in modern dating. In researching this concept, however, I found a 2024 article on Psychology Today that called out the dangers of such trends. In her article, writer Emily Jamea, Ph.D., LMFT, LPC, a sex and relationship therapist based in Houston, Texas, shared her professional perspective on modern dating trends and their impact on love.
“Some trends, like ‘the ick,’ seem to me to encourage people—usually women—to deliberately look for things in potential partners—usually men—that turn them off,” she wrote. “These women might compile ‘ick’ lists that include innocuous things like doggy paddling in water, showing their ankles, or taking naps.”
You know, everyday normal things that every human should be able to do without being made fun of. And while the concept of an “ick” might be lighthearted (we’ve all joked about it), it can also be quite damaging to any gender.
Jamea also highlighted some other harmful dating trends that we’ve normalized in recent years. For example, she pointed out that going “boysober” or embracing a “celibacy era” might seem nice in theory. Still, when executed, it could prevent you from getting the things you truly desire.
In other words, you’re preemptively shutting down your own needs for love, connection, and sexual intimacy.
To read the remainder of the article to find our why dating trends are so popular today, read it at vice.com.
