The Death of Romance
The Atlantic explores the 'great romance slump,' noting a decline in dating and committed relationships among young people post-COVID. The piece examines the cultural and psychological factors contributing to this shift away from traditional romantic pursuits.
Why it matters
Changing social norms regarding relationships have significant long-term implications for demographics, family structures, and the economy.
More and more young people are giving up on love.
Illustration by The Atlantic. Source: Philotheus Nisch / Connected Archives. August 6, 2026, 7 AM ET Share Save Listen − 1.0 x + Seek 0:00 27:44 Subscribe here: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | Overcast | Pocket Casts
Reports confirming the death of young love are pouring in: Post-COVID declines in dating aren’t rebounding. Way fewer teens and young adults are having sex. In 2019, 42 percent of single adults younger than 40 told Pew Research Center that they’d never been in a committed relationship.
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