MUMBAI: Popular dating app Tinder has done a unique study on the youth population in India revealing that the early 20s have acquired “a new meaning and cultural significance” for the GenZ. The study reveals that the youngsters in the age bracket of 18 to 25 are changing the norms of “adulting” by trying to be freer in exploring career fits, relationships, interactions, self expression, self-identity, and the direction they want their life to take. For both men and women, getting married and having kids ranks fairly low on their 5 year-goals lists and aspirations. So does accumulating assets - they would much rather collect experiences.

The study states for young Indians in the ages of 18 to 25, ‘being myself’ is the most important priority over a five-year horizon. For those in the ages of 18 to 22, this is followed by making their parents proud (56 per cent), building strong friendships (56 per cent), finishing their education (52 per cent) and exploring the world and meeting different people (42 per cent). These priorities evolve somewhat for those in the age group of 22 to 25 years, with getting a good job becoming a key priority (56 per cent), while making their parents proud (54 per cent) and building strong friendships (52 per cent) remain strong priorities for this cohort as well.

Tinder’s research also found that the uncertainties of this life stage are felt in more pronounced ways for women in India who have conventionally had much more pressure to adhere to social expectations and norms, and are also allowed less time than men before being asked to “settle down". 63 per cent of women surveyed indicated their desire to work hard to achieve self identified goals as a top priority.

Speaking about the insights, Tinder India – GM Taru Kapoor said, “In our social narrative, there always has been a lot of focus on ‘goals’ and ‘successes’ - the perfect life partner, the settled career path, the house, the car or whatever it is that one aspires to. But we have never really focused on celebrating the journey that gets us there - the mishaps and the milestones, the sometimes confusing but ultimately very memorable phase of life that is unique for everyone. We want to celebrate the little wins and showcase empathy towards the struggles, dilemmas, worries, and wins of this life stage without judgment. We believe the journey is just as important to celebrate and cherish as the destination. It is the journey of growing up and discovering the world and yourself. It is an opportunity to deeply examine your values and challenge preconceived definitions of happiness, success, and possibilities. We are therefore celebrating the journey towards ‘Adulting’. Tinder is a companion and champion as we celebrate this life-phase and navigate all its unique dilemmas and problems.”