Going Steady to Situationships: Dating Trends in Youth

In this week's episode we discuss the ever-evolving world of dating among today’s teens and young adults. How do their dating habits compare to those of past generations? Spoiler: it’s not all candlelit dinners and going steady. From the rise of group hangouts and "situationships" to the rejection of traditional labels, today’s dating culture is defined by fluidity, caution, and connection on their own terms. We share stories from our own teenage years—when calling someone on a landline was the peak of romance—and contrast that with the hyper-digital, over-scheduled reality of Gen Z. What’s driving these shifts? We explore the powerful role of social media, texting, and dating apps, as well as external factors like helicopter parenting, academic pressure, mental health awareness, and a growing disinterest—or even anxiety—around dating.