Despite being seen as politically progressive, Gen Z men are surprisingly adherent to traditional dating norms, with some expressing anger if dates challenge the expectation for them to foot the bill.
Gen Z men are proving to be staunch advocates of traditional dating customs, defying expectations with their unwavering commitment to chivalry. Even in an era marked by progressive ideologies, a significant number of young men are adamant about upholding age-old practices, particularly when it comes to footing the bill on dates. A recent survey highlighted in The New York Times sheds light on this phenomenon, revealing that 90% of Zoomer men still assume the financial responsibility during outings with their romantic interests.
Despite the strides made in promoting gender equality, the expectation for men to be the primary financial contributors in dating scenarios remains deeply ingrained. This sentiment was echoed by a 27-year-old woman cited in the report, who argued that gender equality did not necessitate an equal split in expenses, citing factors such as the gender pay gap and the additional financial burdens borne by women.
The reluctance of many Gen Z women to share the financial burden on dates contrasts sharply with the willingness of their male counterparts to cover the costs entirely. Scott Bowen, 24, expressed his commitment to this tradition, stating that he consistently foots the bill for dates, often spending between $70 and $100 per outing.
However, the adherence to traditional dating norms is not without its tensions. Some men, like 27-year-old Kent Barnhill, initially express frustration or even anger when women offer to contribute financially. Despite identifying as a feminist, Barnhill admitted to feeling “furious” when his girlfriend suggested splitting the bill on their first date. Over time, however, he became more open to sharing expenses, reflecting a gradual shift in attitudes towards dating dynamics.
Yet, not all men are as accommodating to the idea of shared expenses. According to 24-year-old Kala Lundahl, some men visibly recoil at the notion of women offering to pay, indicating a lingering discomfort with deviating from traditional gender roles. This dichotomy between traditional expectations and evolving attitudes towards equality underscores the complexities of modern dating dynamics among Gen Z.
