Dating Recession: 7 Essential Insights for 2025

Introduction: The Dating Recession

The term 'dating recession' refers to the noticeable decline in dating activity among young adults, particularly those aged 22 to 35. According to the Wheatley Institute's 2025 National Dating Landscape Survey, only about 30% of unmarried young adults report actively dating on a monthly basis. This decline is concerning, as dating is often seen as a precursor to l

ong-term relationships and marriage. The survey highlights the need for effective road maps that can guide young adults through their dating experiences, helping them connect their dating lives with their marital expectations.

Overview of the 2025 National Dating Landscape Survey

The Wheatley Institute conducted the 2025 National Dating Landscape Survey with a nationally representative sample of 5,275 unmarried young adults. The survey aimed to explore contemporary dating trends, focusing on the factors influencing dating behaviors and the challenges faced by this demographic. The findings are crucial for understanding the current dating landscape and the barriers that young adults encounter.

Key Findings from the Survey

The survey revealed several alarming statistics regarding dating among young adults:

• Only 30% of young adults actively date at least once a month, with a notable disparity between genders (26% women, 36% men).
• 49% of respondents indicated that a lack of confidence hinders their dating efforts.
• Less than 40% feel confident in their ability to approach romantic interests or interpret social cues during dates.
• A staggering 74% of women and 64% of men reported not dating or having only dated a few times in the past year.

These findings underscore a significant shift in dating dynamics, with many young adults feeling unprepared and lacking the necessary skills to engage in dating effectively.

Challenges Faced by Young Adults in Dating

The challenges identified in the survey can be attributed to several factors:

1. Low Self-Confidence: A significant number of young adults report feeling insecure about their dating abilities, which discourages them from pursuing romantic relationships.
2. Lack of Skills: Many individuals feel ill-equipped to navigate the complexities of dating, including initiating conversations and reading social cues.
3. Shifting Cultural Expectations: Evolving gender roles and societal norms have created confusion around dating expectations, making it difficult for young adults to understand how to engage in relationships.
4. Economic Pressures: Financial instability and the pressures of modern life can detract from the time and energy young adults are willing to invest in dating.

Connecting Dating Experiences to Marital Expectations

One of the primary concerns highlighted by the survey is the disconnect between dating experiences and long-term marital expectations. Many young adults enter the dating scene without a clear understanding of what they want in a partner or how to cultivate a meaningful relationship. This lack of clarity can lead to frustration and disappointment. The Wheatley Institute emphasizes the importance of shifting from a 'soulmate' mentality to an 'agency-based love' approach. This perspective encourages individuals to actively work on their relationships rather than waiting for a perfect match to come along. As Jason Carroll, Family Initiative Director at the Wheatley Institute, states, "Rather than trying to find your ‘one and only,’ our research really points to the importance of creating an ‘only one’ marriage, which really puts commitment and investment and proactive behaviors at the front of it" [Church News].

The Role of Guidance and Support

Given the challenges outlined in the survey, it is clear that young adults could benefit from guidance and support in developing their dating skills. The Wheatley Institute's research indicates that many young adults feel unprepared and lack a sense of dating efficacy. This highlights the need for resources and programs that can help individuals build confidence and improve their dating abilities. Some actionable steps that can be taken to support young adults in their dating journeys include:

1. Workshops and Seminars: Offering workshops that focus on communication skills, confidence-building, and understanding social cues can empower young adults to engage more effectively in dating.
2. Mentorship Programs: Pairing young adults with mentors who can provide guidance and share experiences can help them navigate the dating landscape more successfully.
3. Online Resources: Creating accessible online resources, such as articles, videos, and forums, can provide valuable information and support for those seeking to improve their dating skills.
4. Encouraging Open Conversations: Fostering an environment where young adults can openly discuss their dating experiences and challenges can help normalize the difficulties they face and encourage peer support.

Conclusion: Navigating the Contemporary Dating Landscape

The findings from the Wheatley Institute's 2025 National Dating Landscape Survey paint a concerning picture of the current dating landscape among young adults. With only 30% actively dating and many feeling unprepared, it is crucial to address the barriers that hinder effective dating. By providing guidance, resources, and support, we can help young adults navigate their dating experiences and align them with their long-term marital expectations. As we move forward, it is essential to foster a culture that values proactive relationship-building over the search for a perfect soulmate, ultimately leading to healthier and more fulfilling romantic partnerships.

Key Takeaways

• The dating recession highlights a significant decline in dating activity among young adults.
• Only 30% of young adults are actively dating, with many feeling unprepared.
• Low self-confidence and lack of skills are major barriers to dating.
• Shifting cultural expectations complicate dating dynamics.
• Guidance and resources are essential for improving dating skills.

FAQ

What is the dating recession?

The dating recession refers to the decline in dating activity among young adults, particularly those aged 22 to 35, as highlighted by recent surveys.

What factors contribute to the dating recession?

Factors include low self-confidence, lack of dating skills, shifting cultural expectations, and economic pressures.

How can young adults improve their dating skills?

Young adults can improve their dating skills through workshops, mentorship programs, online resources, and open conversations about dating experiences.

For more information on the Wheatley Institute and their research on dating and relationships, visit their official website: [Wheatley Institute](https://wheatley.byu.edu/).

Sources

1. Automated Pipeline
2. Why young people are swiping left on dating - Deseret News
3. Opinion: The dating recession — how bad is it and what can we do? - Deseret News
4. State of Our Unions: 2026 - Institute for Family Studies
5. Wheatley Institute report: Flourishing romances are more the result of proactive behaviors than soulmate spark - BYU News
6. What this Wheatley Institute study found about the 'soulmate trap' - Church News
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