Looking for love? Gen Z admits it's 'delulu', but doesn't stop trying

If you think today's young singles are hopelessly romantic about dating apps, think again. The latest dating trends reveal that Gen Z has a refreshingly pragmatic, if not cynical, outlook on finding love online. A recent report from Tinder offers a fascinating glimpse into how the newest generation of daters approaches the often-frustrating world of dating apps with resilient realism and self-aware honesty.

From openly embracing "delusional" hopes to "dating for the plot" instead of romance, Gen Z's candid attitudes reflect a uniquely modern paradox. They recognize the slim odds of app-based matchmaking actually leading to a relationship, yet still can't help but give it one more optimistic swipe right. As these dating trends make clear, Gen Z refuses to be deterred from their quest for real connections, even when their own dating bios admit to being utterly "delulu."

Packed with equal parts nihilism and earnestness, Tinder's "Year in Swipe" data reveals the endearing contradictions defining young singles' approaches to modern courtship. One major trend is users calling themselves "delusional" or "delulu" on their profiles. Bios like "delulu is the solulu" and "delulu looking for my trululu" became much more common over the past year.

When young daters label themselves "delusional," it implies they think finding a true partner on a dating app is unrealistic and unlikely to happen. But at the same time, they knowingly embrace this "delusional" mindset in hopes of defying the odds and meeting their soulmate. Calling yourself "delusional" has transformed into an open way to stay optimistic despite diminished expectations.  

Another big trend is "dating for the plot" - going on dates mainly to collect funny stories rather than real hopes of romance. Many Gen Z singles anticipate their dates will probably go badly or be awkward. So, instead, they approach dating as an opportunity to get humorous content out of the experience. This connects to the "N.A.T.O" approach of "not attached to outcome" dating - having an open, frank attitude without relationship expectations from the start.

Both "Dating for the Plot" and "N.A.T.O" show Gen Z is aware that there are low chances of finding love through dating apps. Yet despite this apparent dating nihilism, the Tinder report also revealed signs that young people still genuinely desire authentic connections and relationships.   

The top-rated "love language" was "quality time," suggesting Gen Z craves deeper bonding. Most singles also preferred in-person communication over texting or calls. There was an emphasis on using their limited free time efficiently and being organized about dating.

So, while dismissing dating apps as mostly fruitless for finding relationships, Gen Z daters still utilize the apps with the pragmatic aim of facilitating real-world romantic opportunities. As unrealistic as that goal may seem, their mindsets demonstrate an openness about emotional needs that defines their generation.  

Some other fascinating Tinder stats give more insight into Gen Z dating trends: The cities with the fastest response times were Los Angeles, Chicago, and major South Korean metro areas. Surprisingly, anime/manga was rated the most attractive interest among daters, followed by cheerleading, pilates, and the Indian dish biryani.

In contrast, the most popular trending interests were horror movies, hip-hop, tennis, voguing, and "walking my dog." This disconnect between "attractive" and universally popular interests hints at a divide in perceived desirable qualities.

The most-listened-to Spotify song choices had themes ill-suited for attracting dates, like breakups, non-committal relations, and even lyrics about harming exes. Selections like "Kill Bill" by SZA and "Creepin'" by The Weeknd contradict the attempts to make romantic connections, yet they align with Gen Z's complicated feelings toward modern dating.  

Overall, these dating trends depict Gen Z's uniquely pragmatic yet still hopeful attitudes toward using dating apps to find love. Young singles are realistic about the challenges yet still aspire to meaningful bonds. They embrace seeming contradictions—an outlook of nihilism combined with hopefulness—dismissing dating apps while still optimistically trying them.

This self-aware honesty allows Gen Z to navigate today's daunting dating landscape with resilient realism. Their mindsets mix skepticism with a sincere drive to make romantic connections. However, the odds appear low. Beneath the sarcasm lies an enduring vulnerability about intimacy that defines their generation.  

So while openly calling their dating efforts "delusional," Gen Z daters persist defiantly—always looking for the next entertaining plot twist. Their refreshingly candid, pragmatic attitudes toward the chaos of modern dating may actually be one of the strongest assets in their earnest quest for love.

Related Articles:
1. New dating trend "paperclipping" defined - Why it harms both parties

2. Breadcrumbing: The dating trend that leaves you starving for more affection

3. Dating Apps Are Leaving People More Burnt Out Than Loved Up

4. Are dating apps draining your energy? You may have swipe burnout