Two in five people in Ireland will celebrate Valentine’s Day in 2024
DATING AND RELATIONSHIPS
Over 3 in 4 feel Valentine’s Day is too commercialised.
Dating apps are the most common way for 18–34-year-olds to meet their partner.
Meeting through friends is the most preferred way of meeting somebody.
2 in 3 singles state that they sometimes feel lonely.
In the ever-changing landscape of romantic relationships, finding your way can sometimes feel like navigating a complex maze. From traditional avenues like meeting through school or work to the digital age of online dating apps, the options are vast and varied.
But what do current trends and attitudes toward relationships tell us about modern love?
According to recent nationally representative survey from Core Research, it appears that the majority of individuals are currently in committed relationships. Whether married, engaged, or in a long-term partnership, over two thirds of respondents indicated that they are not single and most of them (89%) are happy with their current relationship status. This suggests that despite the prevalence of dating apps and casual dating, many still value and prioritise committed partnerships.
Interestingly, when it comes to meeting potential partners, there seems to be a shift away from traditional methods. While meeting through friends and social circles remains a popular way to connect with others, a significant portion of relationships now begin online, it is the most common way for 18–34-year-olds to meet their partner (30%), compared to over 55s who are most likely to have met their partner on a night out (36%).
Many see the benefits of social media with 59% of people surveyed stating that they feel that social media has made it easier to meet new people, with females (66%) significantly more likely to feel this way than males (52%). This trend highlights the increasing role of technology in shaping modern friendships and relationships.
However, just 5% of people surveyed stated that their preference would be to meet somebody online/through a dating app versus 27% who would prefer to meet someone through friends. This would indicate that many feel a desire to go back to a more traditional way of meeting people.
One in two people sometimes feel lonely
Despite the increasing role of technology, half the population state that they sometimes feel lonely (51%), which rises to two in three of those who are currently single. Younger demographics are also more likely to feel lonely that those who are older and perhaps more likely to be in committed relationships. The majority of people also feel it is becoming more difficult to meet new people (56%), which again is significantly more likely to be females (62%) and those who are currently single (62%). This may be impacted by remote working as there are less chances to meet people in work or at an after work social gathering.
Two in five wish to make new friends
When it comes to friendships, opinions and experiences differ. While the majority (52%) report satisfaction with their current social circles and are not looking to meet new people, two in five expressed a desire to expand their friend group or feel that they lack sufficient friendships. This highlights the importance of not only romantic relationships but also platonic connections in fulfilling one's social needs.
Furthermore, attitudes toward Valentine's Day, reflect a range of perspectives. While some embrace the holiday with enthusiasm and state that they love it (19%), over three in four view it as over-commercialised, and three in five feel it is too focused on loved up couples.
Similarly, preferences for celebrating Valentine's Day vary, with activities like giving gifts (39%), flowers (36%), going out for meals (32%) or cooking a special dinner (30%) and giving chocolates (30%) the most popular activities. Two in three stated that they prefer staying in on Valentine’s Day, interestingly, this is significantly more likely to be females (69%) than males (61%).
Overall, this research paints a nuanced picture of modern relationships. While some may lament the perceived decline of traditional romance, others embrace the opportunities afforded by technology and changing social norms.
