With dating apps and social media dictating the rules of modern romance, it’s no wonder new trends constantly emerge, each stranger than the last.
The latest one? “Throning,” a dating practice where people seek relationships to boost their social status. As one user put it, this trend is making many “glad they were born in the ’80s.”
For anyone feeling lost in today’s dating world, “throning” is the practice of dating someone solely for clout.
According to PureWow, it’s about “dating someone who boosts your reputation (and, probably, ego) just by association.”
In other words, it’s less about love and more about using someone to get a leg up socially.
This isn’t exactly a novel concept.
Back in high school, we all knew someone who edged into certain social circles to elevate their status. Now, throning is taking that approach into the dating sphere.
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As one observer noted, “It’s high school cliques on steroids, with the added thrill of social media validation.”
Research shows this trend may be tied to how people approach dating apps.
A study published in Science Advances found that people typically aim to match with others who are “25 percent more desirable than themselves.”
This “dating up” concept seems to fuel throning, making it a modern-day version of classic status-chasing.
While throning might not be a brand-new behavior, it’s more visible and celebrated than ever.
Thanks to platforms like Instagram and TikTok. People can flaunt their “status” relationships to an audience, giving them instant social credibility. In today’s world, looking desirable seems as important as actually being desirable.
But before anyone jumps on the throning bandwagon, there’s a word of caution.
The team at The Swaddle warns that throning often leads to “shallow and unfulfilling relationships.” Relationships based solely on social gain lack the depth that comes from genuine attraction, shared values, and emotional connection.
“The problem arises when one’s motivation to date another is driven solely by their social aspirations, rather than romantic interest.”
Experts at The Swaddle explain. This means that throning doesn’t just hurt the person being “used” – it can backfire on both parties, leading to mutual dissatisfaction and hollow relationships.
For many, throning reveals a problematic prioritization of influence over intimacy.
“In essence, throning prioritizes influence and clout over shared interests, meaningful connection, and emotional intimacy,” says The Swaddle.
In a culture increasingly focused on image, throning may reflect a deeper shift in values – but at what cost?
Unsurprisingly, this trend is facing backlash from those who grew up in an era without constant social media pressures.
One reader commented, “This world proves to me more and more every day how lucky I am to have grown up in the ’80s.” Another on X remarked, “True connection and genuine love are timeless values that shouldn’t be overlooked.”
As throning gains attention, experts and social media users alike raise questions about the long-term effects of dating for status.
While it might work in the short term, throning may ultimately rob people of genuine connections. For those longing for authentic relationships, it’s a trend best left swiped left.
