How To Help the Next Generation Break the Dating Recession | Alan Hawkins | #175

In this episode of the Stronger Marriage Connection podcast, Dr. Dave welcomes Dr. Alan Hawkins to explore the critical issues surrounding the current state of dating, its impact on marriage formation, and practical solutions to strengthen young adults' dating skills. Understanding these dynamics is essential for fostering healthier relationships and addressing the broader societal trends influencing marriage today.Key Topics:The concept of the "dating recession" and its scope, including data indicating a decline in active dating among young adults.How contemporary cultural shifts, digital communication, and social skills deficits affect dating confidence and competency.The importance of developing social and dating skills early, including parent and educator roles; introduction of programs like the Utah Marriage Commission's Dating Ready course.Barriers to dating such as money, past negative experiences, and digital preference for virtual interaction.Strategies for building relationship grit and resilience to handle setbacks and rejection.The influence of historical norms versus current practices in dating and marriage, including the shift from duty-based to emotional connection-based relationships.Recommendations for societal, educational, and familial interventions to improve the dating system and support young adults.Happy Hacks: 101 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Happiness, Reduce Stress, and Build a More Meaningful Life.Available now starting at 99¢ on Amazon and Dave's Book StoreWritten by Dr. Dave Schramm, this practical and uplifting new book offers simple, research-based strategies to help you build greater happiness, strengthen resilience, reduceThe opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission.Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways: Strongermarriage.org  Podcast.stongermarriage.orgYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StrongerMarriageLifeTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@strongermarriagelifeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579Dr. Dave Schramm: http://drdaveschramm.comhttp://drdavespeaks.com Dr. Liz Hale: http://www.drlizhale.com/