Don’t drink? That’s a deal-breaker! 1 in 10 singles would not date a nondrinker, reveals poll.
When it comes to finding a relationship, there are always obstacles to the path of true love. Most people have a list – long or short – of deal-breakers; traits that they will not accept, compromise on, or adjust to when it comes to a potential partner. These can include their political orientation, whether they have kids, if they’ve been previously married, if they’re covered in piercings or tattoos, whether they smoke, or, very commonly, drink too much.
Firstly, the survey made the startling discovery that more than 1 in 10 singles (14%) would NOT date a teetotaler, period. However, if given a binary choice between dating a teetotaler, and someone who drinks too much, 12% would opt for the latter. This does change slightly when it comes to gender: 19% of men would definitely date someone who drinks too much compared to just 5% of women.
Nearly 1 in 5 singles (18%) admit they would be disappointed if they discovered on a first date that their date didn’t drink alcohol. This could be due to an element of feeling judged – that the nondrinker had a more moralistic approach and was able to control themselves better than the one who likes a drink or two. But, the main reason people drink on a date is potentially boost their confidence; after all, 31% of singles said that dating is definitely harder without alcohol and more than a quarter (29%) say they need a bit of liquid courage before they even go on a date.
· Focusing alcohol consumption on romantic interactions and activities can lead to alcohol dependency within the relationship. To avoid alcohol dependency in romantic relationships, couples should participate in intimate activities that are not centered around alcohol consumption, such as date nights and learning new skills together.
· Singles should avoid seeking out romantic partners who are overly indulgent when it comes to alcohol consumption. Seeking out partners with healthy drinking habits is very effective in limiting the potential for alcohol dependency in romantic relationships.
· Intimate activities within romantic relationships should not be based on alcohol consumption. Singles should opt for dates that are not centered around drinking. This can create a positive and healthy foundation for a potential relationship.
· Although having a drink on a date can suppress anxiety and nerves, singles should look for healthy ways to deal with dating anxiety by communicating with their potential partners. Drinking to pacify one’s anxiety could create an unhealthy pattern in any potential relationship.
· Couples should also avoid turning to alcohol when there is conflict within the relationship and should find healthier ways to deal with conflict and frustration.
· Counseling is an important tool when dealing with alcohol dependency in relationships, and is a healthier option for couples dealing with this issue.