Dating

Believing certain groups are more attracted to you may sway who you find attractive, according to new research. The study points to racialized perceptions of desirability as a factor in dating preferences among Asian and Black Americans.

A new study provides causal evidence that ghosting inflicts emotional harm comparable to direct rejection. But ghosted individuals experienced more lingering attachment and uncertainty, suggesting this silent breakup strategy may prolong distress and complicate recovery.

Psychologists have discovered that sexual desire plays a key role in long-term partner preferences. When desire increases, women’s interest in physical attractiveness rises to match men's, reducing long-standing sex differences in what people look for in committed relationships.

Women’s creativity got a boost from thinking about committed relationships—but only to a point. A new study suggests that sexual arousal linked to highly desirable long-term partners may short-circuit creative thinking, highlighting a strange cost of romantic attraction.

A new study finds that while higher income doesn’t make single life more satisfying, it does predict greater desire for a romantic partner and increases the odds of starting a relationship—suggesting money might influence when people feel ready to date.

Think pressure to find a partner will help your search? Think again. New psychology research suggests motivations based on avoiding shame or meeting others' expectations are ineffective. Genuinely valuing connection is what actually predicts finding a relationship down the line.

Dating apps are less forest than a maze, where users encounter lying wolves, breadcrumb trails and sudden ghosting. Research reveals that deception, sporadic interest and abrupt disappearances are common, underscoring the need for honest communication and friendship before romance blooms.

A new study finds that where a romantic interaction occurs significantly influences its perceived success. Settings judged as socially appropriate—like bars or dating apps—make romantic overtures more likely to be accepted, regardless of the initiator’s attractiveness or familiarity.

College students today still see romantic relationships as progressing through a familiar series of stages. A new study shows these perceptions have barely shifted over the past decade, even in an era defined by dating apps and shifting cultural norms.

Women who use dating apps are more likely to support cosmetic surgery—and this connection is even stronger among those who present themselves deceptively online, according to new research.

New research highlights the psychological tradeoffs of dating app use among young adults. People with social appearance anxiety and rejection sensitivity report greater perceived benefits—but also show higher levels of problematic use.

A new study explores how people respond when they're dumped, revealing sadness, curiosity, and distraction as the most common reactions.

People who are organized and responsible tend to have more children, a new study shows—hinting at evolutionary advantages for conscientiousness.

In online dating, looks dominate—and surprisingly, men and women prioritize physical attractiveness the same way, according to a study of real-world swiping decisions.