Understanding the Dating Recession: Insights and Solutions

Overview of the Dating Recession

The term "dating recession" describes a notable decline in dating activities among young adults in the U.S. The Wheatley Institute at Brigham Young University, in collaboration with the Institute for Family Studies, released the 2026 State of Our Unions report, which highlights this concerning trend. The report is based on the 2025 National Dating Landscape Survey, which surveyed 5,275 unmarried individuals aged 22-35.

Survey Findings

Key findings from the survey reveal:

• Only 1 in 3 young adults are actively dating, whether casually or exclusively.
• Approximately 74% of women and 64% of men reported minimal dating activity in the past year.
• Despite low participation, 86% of respondents expressed a desire to marry.
• 83% of women and 74% of men prefer dating for serious relationships over casual encounters.
• 49% of young adults cited low confidence as a significant barrier to dating.

Implications for Young Adults

The decline in dating activities poses serious implications for future marriage rates. The report authors note, "In the absence of these proactive efforts, we believe we can expect an ongoing dating recession that will continue to depress future marriage rates". This trend threatens not only individual relationships but also the stability of families and communities.

Potential Solutions

To combat the dating recession, the report recommends several actionable solutions:

1. Relationship Education: Implement programs that teach young adults effective dating and relationship skills.
2. Economic Policies: Advocate for policies that address economic barriers, such as housing costs, that may hinder young adults from dating.
3. Cultural Reforms: Encourage cultural shifts that promote the value of serious relationships and marriage.

By addressing these issues, society can help foster a healthier dating environment for young adults.

In conclusion, the dating recession represents a significant challenge for young adults in the U.S. Understanding the underlying factors and implementing effective solutions can pave the way for improved dating experiences and ultimately, stronger relationships.

Sources

1. www.deseret.com [via DataForSEO]
2. 'Dating recession' leaves many young adults on the sideline
3. State of Our Unions 2026: The Dating Recession
4. Today's Young Adults Are in a Dating Recession
5. Source: ifstudies.org
6. Source: wheatley.byu.edu
7. Source: wheatley.byu.edu
8. Source: wheatley.byu.edu
9. Source: wheatley.byu.edu
10. Source: wheatley.byu.edu