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Some 50 percent of Americans who aren't in a relationship aren't seeking a committed partner or trying to find dates, Pew reported on Thursday, based on polling that was done in October 2019. As for those open to romance, only 14 percent said they're looking specifically for a relationship. A total of 10 percent want casual dates only, while 26 percent are open to either dating or relationships.
While 61 percent of single American males are looking for dates or relationships, only 38 percent of women considered themselves to be in the dating market. Pew said the most common reasons given were that respondents had more important priorities or that they just enjoyed single life.
Such lifestyles are also becoming more socially acceptable. Only 22 percent of American singles said they feel at least some pressure from friends to date, while 32 percent acknowledged pressure from family. Singles also may be discouraged by the difficulty of the task: 65 percent of single women said it's hard to find someone looking for the same type of relationship as they want, compared with 45 percent of males. Some 56 percent of women respondents said it's tough to find someone who meets their expectations, versus 35 percent of males.
The MeToo movement hasn't helped the romance cause. A total of 65 percent of single men and 43 percent of female respondents said increased focus on sexual harassment has made it more difficult to know how to interact with someone on a date.
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