Gen Z dating scenes bring a blend of modern views and traditional practices.
In the ever-evolving landscape of dating and relationships, the question of who foots the bill has become a subject of debate and introspection, especially among Generation Z. This generation, known for its progressive views on social issues, including gender equality, still navigates the waters of traditional dating practices when it comes to financial matters on dates.
Although young American men align with progressive ideals on gender equality, they frequently find themselves adhering to traditional dating norms, willingly shouldering the cost of dates. A survey involving 552 heterosexual college students revealed that men from this generation covered the expenses on 90% of dates.
Conversely, Gen Z women paid for the entirety of the date in only 2% of instances, while 8% of dates saw costs shared equally between partners.
Professor Shanhong Luo, who spearheaded the study, commented, “The conventional dating etiquette prevails among the younger generation.”
One 27-year-old woman articulated that striving for gender equality doesn’t necessitate an equal split in dating expenses. She argued that considering the wage gap, the time and money women invest in preparing for dates, and their expenditures on reproductive health, it’s reasonable for men to bear a greater share of dating costs.
The sentiment of men willingly paying for dates is echoed by many, with Scott Bowen, a 24-year-old, sharing that he habitually pays for his date’s drinks, meals, and coffee, with costs ranging from $70 to $100.
The expense of dating can be significant for men seeking a relationship, and some express displeasure when their date offers to contribute financially. Kent Barnhill, a 27-year-old data analyst and avowed feminist from Washington, D.C., shared his initial frustration when his now-girlfriend suggested splitting the bill on their first date. However, over time, he has become more open to sharing expenses.
Yet, the notion of women contributing to the bill can still provoke discomfort among some men, as Kala Lundahl, 24, observed, noting a tense reaction from some men when she proposes to pay.
However, the landscape is nuanced. While a large portion of Gen Z men take on the role of financial provider on dates, there’s a growing openness towards discussing and sharing expenses. Instances of discomfort or frustration when a woman offers to pay highlight the tension between traditional expectations and modern realities. Yet, as relationships evolve, so too does the willingness among some couples to share costs more equitably.
The dialogue around who pays on dates among Gen Z is emblematic of broader conversations about gender roles, economic pressures, and personal autonomy. As societal norms continue to shift, so too will the practices of younger generations navigating the complexities of modern dating. While many Gen Zs may currently adhere to traditional norms of covering bills on dates, the landscape is fluid and subject to change as discussions about equality and partnership continue to evolve.