What is 'throning', the new dating trend that has taken the internet by storm?

Dating trends are always changing and in this fast-paced world of online mediums and dating apps, relationships are also evolving. With the emergence of social media, dating apps and other mediums, it has become easier to connect with more people.

We often come across dating terms such as ghosting, benching, breadcrumbing, situationship, gaslighting as online dating has become the norm of new-age romance. These catchy and quirky phrases have taken the internet by storm in recent times.

Now, Gen Z has coined a new dating term-throning- this is for people who date less for love and more for social status, reports The New York Post. 'Throning'- new relationship trend is on the rise.


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Throning is the new dating trend

'Throning' means "dating someone who boosts your reputation (and, probably, ego) just by association", according to PureWow, essentially placing them on a theoretical throne. A past study published in the journal Science Advances found that dating app users attempt to find a match about “25% more desirable than themselves", the report suggests. Throning means someone who flaunts their partner on social media for popularity and attention to level up their game.

'Throning' is less about forging deep, meaningful and genuine connections but more about aligning with someone whose social status might elevate their own visibility. Basically, 'throning' is putting your date or partner on a metaphorical throne for their social perks, rather than valuing their character qualities. It shouldn't be disguised as a romantic relationship.

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Is throning a new dating term?

Notably, 'throning' may not necessarily be a new concept as it is similar to "gold digging" or "clout chasing".

According to The Swaddle, “the problem arises when one’s motivation to date another is driven solely by their social aspirations, rather than romantic interest, attraction, affection, and most other things that form the foundation of a relationship.”

The outlet added: “In essence, then, throning prioritizes influence and clout over shared interests and values, meaningful connection, and emotional intimacy.”

Throning can make a person feel comfortable, appreciated, validated from their partner, as they may feel undervalued in other areas of their life.

The “throning” trend comes shortly after a survey predicted what dating habits are likely to flourish in the new year, such as “yap-trapping” or “freak matching," as per New York Post.

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Additionally, with the growing dominance of social media, it is easier to guess a person's social status if they are regular in posting their content online. One can get a glimpse of people's social status, lifestyle, insights of personal life from social media. Plus, nowadays another symbol of social status is how many followers you have, with the term "clout chaser" being used to describe someone who is desperate for fame, reports Indy100.

Stacy Thomson, founder of matchmaking dating app Reddi, told Indy100 why "Throning" will ultimately fail to provide "real fulfilment" within relationships. "While it may give temporary confidence or entry into a particular circle, a relationship based primarily on social status often lacks both the depths and stability that come from shared values and emotional intimacy," she explained.

"It's very important for people engaging in this trend to take a step back and think about their reasons for doing so and how it will affect them and their partner in the long run. Ultimately, real fulfilment in relationships tends to come from authenticity and mutual respect," she added.