Gentlemen DO prefer blondes
Almost half of Aussies (42%) are in relationships with someone who doesn’t reflect their type, according to new research by dating app eharmony.
This challenges the definition of having a “type”, which often is misleading and can restrict romantic potential.
eharmony psychologist Sharon Draper said it’s not surprising that apps have affected the dating world.
“It’s not that surprising that so many people have a preconceived idea about their type, but it is unfortunate that this can act as a barrier to finding love,” she said.
“The fact that almost one in three of those in relationships are with partners who do not typically reflect their preferences, proves that our lustful leanings can be unreliable.
“In the world of online dating, it’s easy to make snap judgements based on appearance. But numerous scientifically based studies demonstrate that long after sexual chemistry has peaked, its high compatibility that determines romantic success or failure.”
More than half of those polled (56%) admit they avoid dating matches that don’t fit all their chosen criteria, meaning that up to 14 million individuals may be missing out on finding real love.
More than half of online love-seekers (53%) admit they have a type when it comes to dating (51% men versus 54% women), including an inclination for certain hair colour, height and body size.
Women prefer the darker hair look (34%), but it seems gentlemen do prefer blondes, with fair locks taking out the top spot (37%) for their dating type.
Redheads appeal to just over one in 10 (13%) Aussies when it comes to romantic choices.
Women are generally (40%) smitten for the stereotypical ‘tall dark and handsome’ type – preferring to date men of taller stature who have dark hair.
In terms of body size, almost half of men (48%) would prefer to date someone of slim build, whereas only a quarter of women (27%) require their blokes to be trim.
Compared to Brits, Aussies are more likely to go for the athletic type, with a third (34%) of Aussies liking tall or large, compared to only 18% of our northern hemisphere cousins.
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