It’s not your imagination — dating has gotten way more combative lately

Dating has become increasingly combative lately, according to a report that highlights the growing suspicion and negative attitudes among singles on dating apps and in real life. Lisa Marie Wilson, a 51-year-old author, shared her experience of a date where her partner accused her of lying about her height, even before they had met in person.

Despite his initial skepticism, Wilson remained open-minded, but the interaction left a lasting impression on her. The report suggests that this antagonistic behavior stems from the pressure people put on others to meet their expectations, leading to a checklist mentality when searching for a partner. This shift in dating dynamics is further fueled by the rise of online dating, where people are exposed to a plethora of potential matches, making it harder to establish trust and genuine connections.

Additionally, traditional gender roles and values have resurfaced, shaping people's expectations of romantic relationships and adding to the overall negativity. Experts suggest that this hostile environment in dating may hinder the ability to find love or enjoy casual encounters, as assuming the worst about others can be counterproductive to building attraction and fostering healthy relationships.