What is a ‘dating recession’ and why is it making us bad at our jobs? | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleOlivia PetterThursday 19 March 2026 14:03 GMTDating expert reveals how to spot signs you are dating a narcissistGen Z and millennials are experiencing a 'dating recession', with research indicating a significant decrease in dating activity compared to previous generations.Psychologists suggest that a lack of intimate relationships is eroding essential communication and conflict management skills, which are crucial for workplace performance.Skills such as negotiation, empathy, compromise, and teamwork, typically honed in romantic relationships, are not being developed as effectively by young adults.The mental and emotional toll of a challenging dating landscape, including anxiety and overthinking, can negatively impact focus, energy, and concentration at work.Experts and personal accounts suggest that entering a stable relationship can free up mental headspace and boost confidence, positively influencing professional aptitude, and recommend more offline interaction.In fullHow dating burnout is making us bad at our jobsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in