Relationships

I wouldn't classify this topic as particularly economics-y, but it could be. Interactions and dynamics between people affect transitory or steady state equilibrium outcomes in various ways. I suppose the topics about relationships are going to be popular as the calendar year approaches Valentines Day. It used to be a day testing popularity in school - however as one grows older, it is just another day, and an excuse for consumer spending. For those that enjoy the celebrations, good for you!

Relationships, particularly of the romantic variety, are complicated things. Everyone has their ups and downs, their push and pulls and their reconciliations. It should be quite obvious that every relationship is informed by culture/ religion and personal preferences, which are subject to temporal changes. Finding a good working romantic relationship thus requires investment - it doesn't just end after becoming official or after the wedding. With modernity, they are now quite short-lived on average. A lot of people seem to lament about mind games, however perhaps mind games have always existed, especially in the past where separation between genders were the norm and it was frowned upon to spend alone time with each other. Do they like me? Do they not like me? When would I be able to physically see them again/ see them in person? Would I be able to call them on the phone without either of us getting into trouble? You steal glances, wondering what they mean? Etc etc etc.

In comparison, it is very direct in this day and age. There are apps and online platforms, and it is encouraged to search on them; we have texting, video calling and normal calling. The taboos have greatly reduced, apart from affairs/ cheating. Perhaps the removal of technological and cultural hurdles makes the lack of clarity and directness feel more cruel. Especially at the beginning stages these days, there are fewer factors to blame in terms of why the relationship is difficult; the friction just screams "lack of interest" or "one sidedness" which is hurtful. There are a lot of distractions and people end things early even from a minor inconvenience.

Of course, this has wider and longterm implications for coupling and family creation, which ultimately affects the economy and outcomes through changes in the social make up of a population. Longer search times for the right one, delayed coupling and thus a delay in having children. Having elderly parents at a younger age which means having to think about other people's retirement and potential missed own life experiences. However, for the children, having older parents might be beneficial for financial stability, which also affects outcomes. Needless to say, there is an opportunity cost for every possible path.