Generation Z, or Z世代, has grown up with the internet as an integral part of their lives, making them quite familiar with online friendships and dating methods. However, a recent survey has revealed a surprising trend: nearly two-thirds of American Z世代 respondents are turning to supernatural methods, such as spiritual guidance, in their quest for love. This shift appears to indicate a growing disillusionment with traditional dating apps.
According to a report by Newsweek, Cherry Data Signals, a consumer research service launched by the digital public relations firm Cherry Digital, conducted a survey in August that found 64% of Z世代 participants have attempted to pursue love through spiritual or supernatural practices, including “manifestation” techniques.
Manifestation refers to the practice of imagining, writing down, or repeatedly thinking about a desired outcome in the hopes of making it a reality. For example, one may write down their wishes as a way to attract them into their lives.
This online survey, commissioned by the dating industry website DatingNews, included responses from 1,013 American adults across various generational cohorts. The findings revealed that the supernatural methods explored by the participants included consulting mediums, using spells, crystal balls, tarot card readings, and astrology chart assessments.
Among the Z世代 respondents, 29% stated that they have attempted “manifestation” or wish-writing, while 25% had consulted a medium, 17% sought tarot card readings, and 16% turned to astrology or compatibility charts. Additionally, 8% reported using crystal balls or other spiritual tools. Notably, 19% mentioned they had paid for magical rituals or love spells through platforms such as Etsy or TikTok.
The compatibility chart mentioned is a method of evaluation primarily used to assess how well two individuals coexist in love, friendship, or work settings, often based on astrological signs—a practice that mirrors how some in Chinese culture consider zodiac signs to determine compatibility.
The trend of seeking supernatural solutions might reflect a common frustration with modern dating. Despite the options provided by dating apps, individuals still struggle to uncover the genuine intentions of their matches and foresee the future of their relationships.
DatingNews interprets this trend as a response to the ineffectiveness of dating apps. The site noted, “There is a thriving online market for love magic and rituals, suggesting that young people are finding something through the magical realm that they can’t attain in the dating industry.”
However, the site also cautioned that while hiring a witch from Etsy or a tarot reader on TikTok might seem enticing, the actual improvement of one’s love life through these avenues is still up for debate.
When asked whether they find these magical methods effective, 17% of Z世代 respondents affirmed their effectiveness, while 29% felt they had some effect, and 20% believed it was too soon to judge. Meanwhile, only 35% dismissed these approaches as completely ineffective.
As age increases, the trust in magical solutions tends to diminish, with a growing reliance on personal connections. This shift could explain why older participants in the survey were less inclined to pursue love through spiritual or supernatural means. Among Z世代, 64% reported using such methods, while the corresponding figures for Millennials, Generation X, and Baby Boomers were 51%, 25%, and 12%, respectively.
Cheryl Groskopf, a certified therapist specializing in anxiety, trauma, and attachment issues, shared insights with Newsweek, emphasizing that the uncertainties of modern dating can lead individuals to seek answers during abrupt relationship endings.
From a neurological standpoint, uncertainty triggers a threat response in individuals, particularly for those with a history of emotional difficulties. Groskopf noted that rituals can provide a semblance of predictability in unpredictable situations; however, relying on these rituals in times of anxiety or uncertainty in relationships may become problematic.
Dakari Quimby, a clinical consultant from a treatment facility in Georgia, remarked that while rituals may facilitate personal reflection, they should not be regarded as superior evidence of relationship compatibility over behavior, willingness, or safety.
In summary, experts suggest that the allure of these practices may not stem from a search for miraculous solutions but rather from a way to navigate experiences that feel beyond one’s control.
In contrast to the supernatural methods employed by Westerners to find love, individuals in Chinese culture are more likely to seek the assistance of Yue Lao, the deity responsible for matchmaking in Daoism.
According to folklore, Yue Lao compiles a register of potential spouses based on personality, interests, and conditions, using a red thread to bind their feet together to form matches. Many who seek love or wish to start a family make pilgrimages to worship this deity.
During their devotion to Yue Lao, it is crucial for seekers to articulate the type of partner they prefer. If they already have a specific person in mind, they should be prepared to provide that individual’s name and birth date.