Experts Unpack 'Throning': The Dating Trend That'll Make You Glad You’re Not Gen Z

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In the ever-evolving world of romance, new trends constantly reshape our understanding of love and connection. The latest trends have many reflecting on their own experiences years ago, especially those who grew up in a time when dating felt more genuine.

For those feeling a sense of disbelief or nostalgia, it's a reminder of how social dynamics have changed. If you've ever wondered about the impact of social media on our love lives and the motivations behind today's dating practices, you're not alone.

Read further to explore what experts have to say about the latest dating trend.

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Throning - When Dating Becomes a Status Symbol

With new dating trends popping up every other day, keeping up can feel like a full-time job. From cringe-worthy tactics like the "penny method" to the age-old frustration of ghosting, the dating world is no less than a battlefield. Now, Gen Z has introduced another twist: "throning."

Defined by PureWow as dating someone who boosts your reputation just by association, it's making people born in the '80s count their lucky stars. Sure, aiming to "date up" isn't new-it's just that social media has amplified this trend, letting people flaunt their "throned" partners and, in turn, elevate their own social status for the world to see.

The 'Dating Up' Phenomenon

According to a study in Science Advances, dating app users often aim to match with people about 25% "more desirable" than themselves. While the term "throning" may be new, the concept isn't. People have always been drawn to "dating up"-it's just that in today's world, where social currency and personal branding matter as much as money, throning has become a trendier take on the classic "gold-digging" approach.

While there's nothing wrong with forming connections to expand social circles, issues arise when relationships are built solely on social aspirations. The Swaddle emphasises that throning focuses more on influence and clout than on genuine attraction.

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It points out, "The problem arises when one's motivation to date another is driven solely by their social aspirations, rather than romantic interest, attraction, affection, and most other things that form the foundation of a relationship."

This can lead to shallow, unfulfilling relationships for both partners, lacking the foundation of true connection. In the end, prioritising status over sincerity might just be a recipe for heartbreak.

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As "throning" picks up popularity, other dating trends are emerging on the horizon. According to a survey by Plenty of Fish, habits like "yap-trapping" and "freak matching" are likely to flourish in the coming year.

Yap-trapping describes a date dominated by one person who won't stop talking, while freak matching is all about finding a partner who shares your unique quirks. In response to these trends, some readers voiced nostalgia for simpler times.

A user on X commented that "throning" reflects a generation prioritising social currency. Finally, in the comments of a New York Post article, one person shared, "This world proves to me more and more every day how lucky I am to have grown up in the 80s."