Aussies embracing dating ‘green flags’, Tinder research shows

New research from Tinder has revealed the “new era” of dating that dozens of young Aussie singles are embracing.

From being rude to wait staff to whinging about an ex, we’re all well aware of the sea of red flags we have to wade through in the pursuit of modern love.

But recent research from Tinder, that surveyed 1000 young Australian singles, revealed that 85 per cent are now focusing on the “healthy qualities” – or “green flags” – displayed by their potential matches instead of ones that might give them the elusive ick.

A green flag, as Tinder Australia spokeswoman Kirsty Dunn explained to news.com.au, is a “positive – but sometimes overlooked – sign that could suggest you’re onto a winner”.

“By focusing on green flags, you’re able to focus on the positive characteristics and attitudes that you believe will keep you happy, content and feeling valued throughout your relationship,” she added.

New research from Tinder has revealed Aussie singles have entered a “new era” of dating. Picture: Martin Bureau/AFP

As one 25-year-old woman recently told Refinery29 Australia, focusing on green flags helped her find her current partner.

“I’ve learned to exercise a bit more restraint [when] focusing on the negatives, on what could actually just be me feeling nervous,” she said.

“I’ve also gotten better at setting boundaries in my dating life and take joy in being open about my emotions and how I love others.”

A green flag is a “positive – but sometimes overlooked – sign that could suggest you’re onto a winner”. Picture: Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Relationship coach John Kenny told Refinery29 that singles should start by looking at what they like rather than what they don’t like.

“Go in [to a date] with your energy high rather than being pessimistic,” he advised.

“Just think, ‘I want to date this person and see if they tick my boxes without being too picky.’

“Don’t worry about finding the right person straightaway – you’re just dating or going to get to know someone and see if they fit into what you really want.”

According to Tinder’s survey, the “top five” green flags are feeling comfortable being your “true self” around your date; your date respecting your boundaries; them making it clear how they feel about you; them validating your feelings; and prioritising making time for you.

“While green flags are the positive signs of healthy dating qualities, red flags are warning signs of potentially ongoing troubling or negative behaviour,” Ms Dunn explained.

Not knowing who the current Prime Minister is, is a red flag according to young Aussie singles. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Dylan Coker

“Things like love bombing, little or no respect of boundaries, a lack of commitment, and playing hot and cold are all examples of red flags.

“We also encourage our members to look out for red flags, however complex and nuanced they may be.”

Aussie singles are also entering a “new era” of red flags, Ms Dunn said, including someone believing that climate change is a hoax or not knowing how the current Prime Minister is.

The difference between a turn-off and a red flag, Mr Kenny said, is gut feeling.

“One of the signs of a toxic or unhealthy situation is if you don’t feel comfortable with someone else’s energy,” he said.

“It’s important to think about how you feel in their energy, rather than looking at something you’re not particularly keen on.”