A Psychologist Reveals 5 ‘Flirting Styles’ – Which Are the Best

When it comes to flirting, everyone has their own unique approach or “flirting style”; Whether you’re the brave type who makes the first move or the one who acts cool. Flirting may seem like a fun game, but for many, it’s also a frustrating process. After all, we’re all wondering the same thing: Am I doing this right?

Interestingly, research published in Contact Quarterly suggests that there are five different dating styles, each shaped by our personality, comfort level, and even the social norms we grew up with.

Whether you’re more traditional or prefer a fun, spontaneous dynamic, natural flirt style It can help you feel more confident and perhaps even more successful in your romantic pursuits.

According to research, here are five common flirting styles and how effective they are:

1. Traditional

The traditional style of dating involves adhering to traditional gender roles when starting a relationship. Individuals with this style believe that in heterosexual relationships, men should take the lead in making the first move, while women should adopt a more passive role and indicate their understanding with more subtle, nonverbal signals, such as eye contact. In this approach, the man initiates the conversation, plans future interactions, and guides the relationship forward.

But, of Tinder Green Flags study reveals that dating norms have changed this year. The researchers found that a significant majority of both men (78%) and women (84%) expressed a desire for equal partnership, but traces of traditional love and chivalry persisted in more developed forms.

For example, the research found that 59% of women appreciate an appointment that allows them to return home safely, and 55% of women prefer to remain phone-free during the appointment to ensure quality time. This shows that women are looking for real emotional connection and are attracted to outdated courtship behavior.

“Women surveyed say they still appreciate acts of chivalry, but that’s no longer the only criterion. Beyond whether or not you give up your seat, what matters now is quality time and undivided attention. “But men still seem to cling to the old concepts of chivalry taught by previous generations, and that’s where we get stuck.” Kindling the report explains.

Although the traditional style feels familiar and safe, relying too heavily on these gendered expectations can hinder deeper emotional connections.

“Two highly traditional partners will likely move slowly through all phases of courtship. “Men will not find many potential partners, and once they identify one, they will develop a nonromantic relationship before acting on those romantic desires,” the researchers write. Contact Quarterly to work.

“During this time, a conventional woman will not be open to dating, will be less likely to communicate attraction, and will experience less sexual chemistry and emotional commitment once a relationship begins,” the researchers add, suggesting that this approach may not be the best way to build relationships. romantic success.

2. Physical

The physical flirting style is defined by the individual’s comfort and competence in expressing romantic and sexual interest through both verbal and nonverbal cues.

This style often includes: directness in communicationLike saying, “Hey, I saw you from across the room and thought you were really cute,” and the ability to understand and respond to sexual chemistry between partners.

2020 to work published in Personality and Individual Differences found that such a direct approach to expressing romantic interest was more likely to lead to a second date than more subtle pick-up lines.

Individuals with this style may also express interest through responsive nods, smiles, eye contact, and maintaining physical closeness. They tend to be confident in their ability to show romantic interest and connect quickly.

3. Sincere

People who prefer an intimate dating style try to establish a genuine emotional connection with their potential partners. This style focuses on building rapport through deep conversations and giving personal attention to their dates. Intimate flirtations prioritize emotional connections over physical attraction and use self-disclosure and high-quality listening, which enhances the perception of interest and closeness.

This style is often considered the most desirable and effective way to flirt because it aligns with the goals of emotional commitment and relationship longevity. Individuals who use this style tend to form meaningful, committed relationships marked by strong emotional chemistry and mutual support.

“Intimate dating style is associated with a lack of willingness to change for the purposes of other people or contexts,” the researchers write, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in creating deeper connections.

4. Fun

The playful flirting style is all about having fun and enjoying the act of flirting without having to seek a deeper romantic relationship. People who adopt this style use flirting to increase their self-confidence and improve their social interactions.

The playful flirt may engage in light-hearted banter with more than one person, often without any clear intention of establishing a relationship. Although this style can be exciting and liberating, it can also lead to misunderstandings, especially if the other party thinks the flirtation will lead to something more serious.

“This is a style in which the communicator is not particularly concerned about how others will interpret their behavior,” the researchers explain.

5. Polite

The polite flirting style is characterized by tactful, respectful, and non-sexual interactions that prioritize mutual respect. maintain physical distance excessive displays of attractiveness. Polite flirts generally focus on slowly building a connection, ensuring their behavior is in line with social norms, and avoiding any inappropriate advances.

“Those who score high on this style may worry about the image of appearing needy, trying too hard, embarrassing themselves, losing control, or appearing too aggressive,” the researchers explain.

While this style can create a safe and respectful environment for potential relationships to thrive, it can sometimes seem reserved or overly cautious. Those who prefer the polite style may have difficulty conveying romantic interest in ways that feel exciting or spontaneous, which can lead to slowed relational development.

So when it comes to the most successful dating style, what’s the verdict? Researchers found that physical, friendly, and playful styles were most associated with dating success.

“Physical and intimate dating styles are associated with greater emotional connection and greater physical chemistry, as well as rapid relational escalation of significant relationships,” the researchers say, underscoring how conveying open interest, genuine intent, and adding playfulness to the conversation can be a game changer. for new relationships.

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