Study Reveals 45% of Young Men in [Specific Age Group] Have Never Approached a Woman

A recent study by Date Psychology revealed that nearly half 45% of men aged 18 to 25 have never asked a woman out in person. This growing reluctance may stem from a combination of social anxiety, fear of rejection, and the increasing dominance of digital communication. With dating apps becoming the norm, traditional face-to-face interactions are fading. Additionally, concerns about social boundaries and approaching strangers have made in-person dating even more daunting.

Interestingly, 74% of women aged 25 and under expressed a strong desire to be approached more often, highlighting a disconnect in modern dating dynamics.

This shift signals a broader transformation in how young adults form relationships, with technology and evolving social norms reshaping the way romance begins. Studies show that today’s young adults are less socially engaged than previous generations, a trend attributed to the rise of online social platforms and a decline in in-person gatherings.

This phenomenon accelerated further with the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced much of the global population into lockdown. Schools operated remotely, dating became virtual, and social events were banned. The only way to connect was through online platforms, making digital interactions the new norm. But has this convenience negatively impacted young adults’ social skills? A study by Harmony Healthcare IT found that more than half of Gen Zs (those currently aged 15 to 28) experience some form of daily anxiety.

The most common triggers include public spaces, crowds, work environments, acquaintances, and even family, in that order. Essentially, the more social the situation, the higher the anxiety leading to fewer opportunities for developing communication skills. Social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat have further reinforced this issue. While they provide an easy way to connect, they also heighten social anxiety through unrealistic lifestyle comparisons, information overload, and online commentary that dictates behavior (think podcast culture). At such a crucial developmental stage, it’s no surprise that many young adults feel too overwhelmed to socialize properly.

How to Improve Your Social Confidence with Women Despite these challenges, there are ways to build confidence and enhance your dating skills:

1. Use social media to better yourself: This may sound counterintuitive, but using social media can actually help combat these habits. Platforms can offer tailored content, so if you follow self-improvement pages and communication experts, you’ll receive valuable tips to boost your confidence.

2. Attend more social gatherings, you’ll meet more people: It’s tempting to stay home and play video games or endlessly scroll through your phone, but this limits your social interactions. Say yes to that seminar, youth program, or birthday party—even if it doesn’t seem exciting. Just showing up is a step in the right direction.

3. Start more conversations. It’s just a chat: Like any skill, communication improves with practice. Talk to the bank cashier, the vendor in your area, or even a fellow commuter. The more you engage, the easier it becomes.

4. Be okay with rejection. It’s not that deep: Many men fear rejection, but a simple “no” isn’t the end of the world. Take your chances, and if she declines, move on. It’s never personal.

5. Leverage your strengths: You don’t need to be the best-looking or tallest guy to make an impression. Your talents and personality can be just as attractive. Are you artistic? A great storyteller? Do you have a deep, soothing voice? Use these qualities to your advantage.

So, young men, it’s never too late or too difficult to ask a woman out. Take your shot—you might just be glad you did!