Why dating activity increases in winter, understanding the impact of the season on relationship seeking. Go beyond seasonal trends by getting to know yourself, becoming a better listener, making an effort, and setting boundaries.
Online dating activity increases by 30% from November to February, and 60% of dating app users say they have used these platforms to ease feelings of sadness or anxiety in the fall and winter. These statistics emphasize the connection between enhanced activity on dating platforms and colder weather.
Winter relationships can be intense and passionate, showing the effect of seasonal variations on romantic behavior. People are more likely to form romantic connections during winter, also known as cuffing season. This tendency reflects behavioral adjustments driven by seasonal changes.
Colder weather and less daylight can lead to fatigue, depression, and social withdrawal. These are symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, a psychological condition affected by seasonal changes, especially in fall and winter.
About 5% of US adults experience SAD, which usually goes on for about 40% of the year. This and similar states of mind can drive people to seek emotional support and companionship through dating apps, strengthening the seasonal trends in online dating.
Strategies for Lasting Relationships
People seek more committed relationships in winter, which starkly contrasts the concept of “summer flings.” The first step is understanding the variations. This can help individuals cope with dating more effectively all year round.
Get to Know Yourself
When someone is out of touch with their emotions, they can’t express themselves clearly, and that impacts their interactions with potential partners. What’s more, the inability to express emotions in a healthy way can adversely affect one’s mental well-being. Going into a relationship out of an emotional need is often a recipe for disaster.
Make an Effort
Lasting relationships do not appear out of thin air. If you yearn for companionship in the colder months, keep in mind that spring will come soon, and you will need to keep the relationship moving forward. A relationship is not something to turn your back on as soon as there are more fun and exciting things to do than spend time with someone.
Become a Better Listener
Many people are only interested in speaking to their partner, not listening. Most of us assume we are good listeners, but it’s far from the truth. As of 2024, people are only likely to understand and retain about half of any conversation, and that’s right after it. The retention drops to below 25% in 48 hours.
Set and Respect Boundaries
Setting boundaries is about letting your partner know what you appreciate in the relationship, not only about what you don’t like in it. Set boundaries, for example, for alone time, and let others know what they are. If you don’t, you risk resentment building up as the other person crosses your boundaries, and that’s not a good foundation for a lasting relationship.
FAQ
What are some ways to build stronger relationships?
Communicate openly, pay attention to your partner, support them when times get tough, and challenge them to do even better if things are going well.
Why do they call it cuffing season?
“Cuff” alludes to handcuffs and expresses the attachment to another person. Usually, this period starts in the fall, when the weather gets colder, and continues throughout winter.
What are the rules of cuffing season?
- Be clear about what you want, both long and short-term.
- Be mindful of your need for a relationship.
- Define the relationship and prepare for the Christmas holidays.
- Don’t make plans too far in advance.
- Set healthy boundaries.
- If it doesn’t work out, don’t ghost the person.
