Decoding 3 Gen Z Dating Trends
In our social media landscape, Gen Z dating trends reveal how young individuals perceive love, validation, and their sense of self-worth. Terms like “Shrekking,” “Throning,” and “Monkey Barring” might sound amusing, but they underscore significant emotional patterns influencing today’s relationships.
Shrekking: When You Date “Down”
Named after the iconic green ogre, this trend describes dating someone perceived as less attractive or less desirable to feel more secure. Experts say that those who “Shrek” often deal with low self-esteem or fear of rejection. Because when they choose a partner they think won’t leave them, they hope to avoid heartbreak.
However, thinking with this mindset can lead to unbalanced relationships—affection turns into pity, and love becomes control.
Throning: When You Date for “Clout”
“Throning” is among the more performative Gen Z dating trends. This is when someone chooses a partner for status, popularity, or social media appeal rather than genuine connection. Think of it as the digital version of “marrying up,” where they place their partner on a “throne” to boost their own image.
The problem with this is that while the relationship often looks picture-perfect online, it can feel empty offline. One person would then feel like an accessory instead of an equal.
Monkey Barring: “Swinging” Between Relationships
Tell us you’re cheating on your partner without telling us you’re cheating on your partner.
“Monkey barring” happens when someone starts a new relationship before ending the current one. Imagine they’re swinging across monkey bars—they never let go before grabbing the next. This is usually driven by fear of being single or avoiding emotional pain.
But this is a huge red flag because it actually prevents real healing and can cause a trail of unresolved emotions. Plus, if we didn’t make it clear enough, it’s basically cheating on one’s partner.
Beyond the Trends
All 3 trends have one thing in common: they stem from insecurity and fear of being alone. Whether it’s seeking validation, attention, or stability, these patterns remind us how love can lose meaning when it’s used to conveniently fill emotional gaps.
READ: A Millennial’s Survival Guide to Gen Z Co-Workers
In the end, genuine connection grows not from control, image, or escape, but from self-awareness, empathy, and honesty. So before you chase any of these Gen Z dating trends, ask yourself: Am I looking for love? Or am I avoiding loneliness?
