Bumble survey reveals insights into ghosting behaviour and its impact on local singles
A recent survey conducted by Bumble, a popular dating and social networking app, revealed that 56% of Singaporeans have ghosted someone due to a perceived lack of connection. The study, which surveyed 1,001 Gen Zs and millennials across Singapore, also found that 61% of respondents have been ghosted themselves.
The survey, conducted from August 5 to 16, 2022, shed light on the rising trend of “ghosting”, a term used to describe cutting off all communication with someone without explanation. Ghosting can range from ignoring messages to completely failing to show up for a date.
The primary reason for ghosting, cited by 56% of respondents, was a lack of connection with the other person. Other common reasons included being too busy (43%) and wanting to avoid the awkwardness of ending a relationship (37%).
Interestingly, the survey found that women were more likely to ghost than men, with 55% of women stating they ghosted someone when they were turned off by something their date said or did, compared to only 30% of men. A significant portion of ghosting (73%) occurred after exchanging a few text messages.
When comparing the two generations, millennials were more likely to ghost than Gen Zs, with 60% of millennials admitting to ghosting due to a lack of connection, compared to 51% of Gen Zs. Additionally, 38% of millennials viewed ghosting as a “normal phenomenon,” whereas only 20% of Gen Zs shared this sentiment. Despite this, both generations agreed that ghosting is generally an unsuitable way to end relationships, with 65% of all respondents expressing this view.
For those who have been ghosted, the effects were discouraging, with 42% of respondents feeling disheartened, 38% feeling less confident, and 34% becoming wary of dating in the future. Men, in particular, were more likely to feel less confident after being ghosted, with 44% of male respondents reporting this effect compared to 30% of women.
Lucille McCart, the APAC Communications Director of Bumble, expressed the app’s stance against ghosting, encouraging kindness and transparency in dating. She urged those who have been ghosted to view it as a sign that the other person was not the right match, reminding them that there are many others on Bumble who would appreciate the chance to connect.
