Young people today are seeking fresh approaches to understand their romantic lives. Experts suggest this may be driven by the complex nature of modern relationships. A recent survey by DatingNews shows that 64 percent of Gen Z participants have engaged with spiritual, psychic, or ‘manifestation-based’ methods for love.
The online survey, conducted by Cherry Data Signals in August with 1,013 U.S. adults, revealed that people are turning to psychics, spells, crystals, tarot, and astrology. The appeal of these practices might stem from the common frustrations many face. Dating apps offer numerous potential partners and extensive information, yet provide little clarity on feelings or relationship progression.
For some, spiritual rituals offer an avenue to address uncertainty, framing reflection when more conventional analyses of profiles or messages come up short. Dr. Dakari Quimby, a clinical adviser at Marietta Springs in Georgia, explains that ‘symbolic systems’ can make dating seem more intentional and emotionally consistent.
Gen Z’s Turn Towards Spirituality
A past report from Newsweek examined similar findings, indicating that Gen Z daters often trust astrology in love matters. The Harris Poll’s report on Gen Z and religion highlighted that 51 percent of respondents practiced meditation or ritual regularly. Meanwhile, 49 percent engaged in manifestation, 30 percent utilized astrology or tarot, and 67 percent prayed regularly. The survey of 372 American Gen Zers suggests this generation comfortably mixes traditional religion with unconventional spiritual practices.
Why Dating May Be Driving the Appeal
Modern dating demands constant evaluation, from assessing profiles to interpreting response times. Kirill Liakh, managing director of emotional insight app Hint, notes that users analyze messages and profiles yet often fail to comprehend the connection. He highlights that astrology provides a language to explore such questions.
Hint’s polling in July showed 56 percent of singles tried to stop analyzing others through behavioral flags due to mental exhaustion, and 61 percent felt this process stopped them from seeing others as complete people. Liakh suggests that astrology offers a framework free from numerical ratings.
What Astrology and Rituals Actually Provide
Cheryl Groskopf, a therapist focusing on anxiety, trauma, and attachment, notes that modern dating ambiguity can leave people seeking answers when connections fade. Astrology and rituals can give people a sense of control over uncontrollable emotions.
Groskopf observes that these practices appeal to Gen Z due to their upbringing amidst dating apps and social media advice. Yet, understanding concepts intellectually doesn’t ease emotional uncertainties like ghosting or mixed signals.
When Does It Become Unhealthy?
Groskopf warns of dependence on these practices to cope with relationship anxiety or uncertainty. While rituals can aid reflection, Dr. Quimby cautions against letting them override real-world behavior and safety.
Experts agree these practices might not offer magical solutions. Instead, they’re a way to navigate experiences beyond one’s control.