Trailing on the constant headlines fueling different political agendas, Match.com surveyed 5,500 singles in 2015 revealing the results just days away from the big V-Day hoopla. While the outcome seemed shocking to some, to me it made perfect sense. Bridging the dots which outline the curves of a perfectly shaped heart, the survey suggests political views really do matter when it comes to just starting out in a relationship. In fact, Match even rejoiced, “Good political conversation on a first date boosted chances of a second date taking place.”
Although it is a well known rule to avoid certain topics on a first date including religion and politics, research experts are exposing a surprising new trend in dating. That is – talk serious politics right away- well, if you are looking for something long-lasting that is. Someone’s religious convictions and political stance may often reflect their character. It can be very telling when assessing the type of person you are looking to build a connection with. Plus, it can stimulate interesting conversations if the small talk isn’t working for you.
To add to this, politics is becoming ever more important to the younger generation and why wouldn’t it? Especially right now with the UK’s EU referendum and the Presidential primaries in the US receiving all the headlines.
As it turns out, people not only enjoy talking about politics on a first date, but they are 91% more likely to arrange a second date. Lengthy conversations about news and world issues contribute to the highest chance levels of reaching the 2 1/2 hour mark, supporting an increasing contingent for a second date. There are so many hot topics: finances, education, immigration, equal rights, terrorism, health care, etc. The bottom line is when it comes to finding true love #YourOpinionsMatter. How you handle your disagreements will speak volumes between the dynamic and future of the relationship. Will there be mutual understanding and respect between your clashing controversies?
Just think, would you want a second date with someone who avidly supported the views of Donald Trump? Although you would certainly have some interesting conversations to look forward to, it doesn’t exactly scream potential boyfriend material… or maybe it does? Like love, politics is highly subjective.
Clinical Psychologist Dr. Bart Rossi insights, “If someone presents a pronounced progressive or conservative point of view on a first date, it may very well encourage a second date if the other person has a similar belief system. Political leaning allows for a “window into the psyche of another person” and people with similar likes are more often to establish a relationship. Despite popular presumptions, opposites really do not cohere or balance each other out the way they do in Rom-Coms. Also, if physically attracted to someone but they come across as not at your level of thinking, the physical appeal will be minimised. Personality trumps everything in politics and real life.”
While political season is in full-swing, the study provides a breakdown highlighting how singles court, seek sex, love and commitment. It is easy to dismiss how politics can be attributed to the core of a human being but this study puts that back into focus. Our political preferences can reveal more than we think; they mirror what we value and what we want from life. Therefore the impact of politics on our love life is rather substantial.
Flirty or thirsty? Either way, this survey serves as a huge political platform for swinging singles to stir up a debate. By exploring the attitudes, behaviours and mindset of the current singles, the Match.com survey shows us serial daters how to bring politics into the bedroom.
