The way we perceive love, romance and sex changes. In recent years, the stereotypes that have been perpetuated have gradually torn down their walls, and relationships and sexuality have become much more open. Not only that, but current circumstances, from the economic crisis to the health crisis, have tested the relationship differently.

BBC collected 5 trends in 2022 in love relationships, as they continue to roam and change.

Gender identity and sexuality have become more fluid

It seems that people are less and less trying to define themselves and their sexuality in binary logic such as I am a man or I am a woman, I like men or women, we are in a relationship or not. For many millennials and Gen Zers, gender is becoming less important when choosing a romantic partner. At the same time, young people, including many celebrities, identify themselves as asexual or declare their gender variability. Of course, all of the above is not necessarily easy in a world that still largely operates on multiple seals.

Taboo and Traditional Relationships Tested

Many young people now resort to so-called “situations,” the state between a relationship and a casual romance that offers them sex and intimacy without the commitment of a long-term relationship. In addition, these new forms of relationships have become more visible thanks to trends such as ethical non-monogamy all over TikTok. Open relationships are also popular, while others prefer to stay single and lead a polygamous lifestyle. However, the stereotypes hold up well. According to a survey, 52% of British adults have been ridiculed because of their romantic status.

Covid-19 and the economy didn’t help relationships and breakups

Many relationships that originated in limited social “bubbles” in the “normal” course of things in 2022 have proved incapable of flourishing. Additionally, this year has seen the arrival of divorce “coaches” who provide psychological support as well as relieving the feelings of guilt or error that often follow divorce. Other couples still choose to take a year off to save their relationship. Finally, financial instability encourages many to choose a partner with whom they practically share their lives.

People tried to make the dating world a better place

Quite a few of the younger generation use dating apps as their main flirting tool. But this “overabundance” of applications and people often leads to “burnout” of flirting. The pandemic has made people more familiar with dating apps, but now they are using them more measuredly and soberly.

Some flower beds withered, while others bloomed

The pandemic has also affected people’s sex lives. Married millennials experienced the most sexual problems this year, according to 2021 data. This year, we learned that millennial couples achieve asexual relationships faster than the older generation. While millennials are fighting for their lives, baby boomers seem to be having the best sex of their lives. As for Gen Zers who are accused of not having enough sex, it seems like they want to organize their lives first before sharing it with anyone else.

According to the BBC.