Dating among Gen Z in Singapore has evolved significantly over the years, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. With technological advances and changing societal values impacting the way we date, we will explore five key pointers that shapes the way Gen Z singles in Singapore approach dating.
Quality Time
Maybe it was covid, won’t really know, but expensive dinners and movie dates seem to be fading against the rising popularity of simple and cheap date ideas (KISS!). Coffee dates, hiking, or visiting an art exhibition are now preferred dating activities. To add, it’s also more common now for couples to go dutch.
Other than multi millionaire influencers, most of the Gen Z population is either still studying or have just graduated. We are somewhat broke, so we’d rather spend more quality time rather than more of what’s left in our savings accounts. (Also thank you G for increasing full time NSmen pay) Beach dates and most notably window shopping (especially in IKEA) have become the norm. Genuine connections are what we seek. Plus, having cheap dates means more money to spend!
Open-Mindedness
Less about being woke and more about going deeper into relationships. Gen Zs are less bothered about different faiths or ethnicity. While Singapore shamelessly hawks our diversity and multiculturalism, the reality is we’ve historically had unspoken barriers to inter-ethnic dating. We’re seeing more cross cultural couples which speaks volumes of how far we’ve come as a society. Respect is key of course, but learning from each other’s unique perspectives and experiences really broadens the mind.
Compatibility
While physical attraction is still important, singles today place greater emphasis on compatibility and shared values in their search for a potential partner. Not to be confused with chemistry which is the initial passionate spark you get from a person’s X factor, compatibility is the authentic connection you build with a partner.
Among the Gen Z population, many have an idea of what they want of a potential partner. Right or wrong, Gen Zs are more outspoken about what they’re looking for in a partner and are determined to approach our relationships with more wisdom.
Online Dating
Driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, meeting new people was a struggle. Gen Zs went with the flow, flooding dating apps like, Tinder, Bumble, and OkCupid. Superficial to judge just based on looks? Maybe, but Gen Zs would rather know who they’re dating in this era of catfishing. It is rather efficient, notwithstanding the endless hours spent manually filtering photos, but at least we get to meet new people anytime, anywhere. With life as short as it is, Gen Zs would rather have fun hooking up now, than wait for the next pandemic.
Virtual Dating
Alongside utilizing dating apps and social media, virtual dating helped to close the distance between couples during covid. Even with the easing of social distancing measures, many still turn to having video calls and online activities like games to stay in touch with their partners.
Many Gen Z couples met through online mediums, this could be as big as a streamer hosting a small meet and greet with their community or simply in open servers for games like Valorant. This works wonders for relationships as there is an instant common interest to talk about and to spend time together on. Couples can complete achievements together or even get married in a game!
Personally, online games has been a medium that provided us with a break from the stresses of daily life, through an escape into a virtual world together. As attractive as going on a candlelit dinner or ice skating may seem, sometimes there are days where you would both prefer relieving stress in the comfort of your own home, especially when you are in a long distance relationship.
Conclusion
The dating culture in Singapore is constantly changing. The preferences and habits of the different generations shape the way we do things. Being able to meet and communicate with new people now comes at the tip of everyone’s fingers. As the world continues to change, it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve and influence the future of dating in Singapore.
