Fewer teens are getting into relationships. In 2023, only half (56%) of Gen Z adults said they dated as teens, compared to 76% of Gen Xers. And while older gens may see it as a “rite of passage” to date young, some of this gen may be skipping romance in favor of friendships, school, or personal growth. (Or situationships.) But researchers suggest that fear of rejection, emotional vulnerability, and even shifting gender dynamics are making young people more hesitant to pursue relationships, too. However, it’s not as bad as it may sound to older gens that teens aren’t dating much; they’re still getting socialization from platonic relationships, and perhaps even avoiding a classically distressing early heartbreak. Still, many twenty- and even thirty-somethings share on socials that a lack of relationship experience can feel shameful—though teens don’t seem to care just yet. (The Atlantic)
👀 Read more from YPulse: These 3 Stats Show How Dating Has Changed For Young People
