Study finds reasons people remain single into their late 20s

A University of Zurich study of more than 17,000 people in the UK and Germany found that higher education, living alone or with parents, male gender and lower well‑being were linked with remaining single for longer in young adulthood.

A University of Zurich team followed more than 17,000 people from the UK and Germany to examine who enters a first romantic relationship and who does not. Participants were first surveyed at age 16 with no prior relationship experience and were assessed annually up to age 29. Researchers analysed sociodemographic and psychological characteristics to identify factors associated with longer singlehood. The study and its findings were reported in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. Key findings: - The study followed over 17,000 participants from the UK and Germany and surveyed them annually from age 16 to 29. - Higher levels of education were associated with a greater likelihood of remaining single for longer, the researchers reported. - Living with parents or living alone was linked with a higher chance of remaining single compared with living with others such as flatmates. - Male gender and lower current well‑being were also associated with longer periods of singlehood. - Prolonged singlehood was reported to correspond with declines in life satisfaction and increases in loneliness, with depressive symptoms rising in the late 20s. - The researchers reported that entering a first romantic relationship tended to be followed by improvements in well‑being. Summary: The study concludes that several socio-demographic and psychological factors are associated with staying single longer in young adulthood, and that prolonged singlehood is linked with moderate risks to well‑being by the late 20s. Undetermined at this time.