Dating in 2024 came with a whole new set of expectations, and for many people, certain behaviors have been absolute turn-offs. A recent study found that the most common “icks” – those cringe-worthy actions that can instantly butcher romantic interest – have evolved, and they’re not always as superficial as they may seem. Whether it’s someone’s bad hygiene or lack of engagement in a conversation, these icks have made it harder than ever to find a connection.
So, what behaviors are dating experts and Reddit users agreeing are the biggest deal-breakers? Let’s break down the top 10 icks that may have ruined any chance of romance, based on new research and some personal experiences.
1. BAD HYGIENE
Bad hygiene tops the list of dating icks for 2024, and it’s no surprise why. No one wants to be with someone who doesn’t care about basic grooming. From foul body odor and bad breath to neglecting to wash hands after using the bathroom, these hygiene fails can quickly kill the spark. Experts found that comments about long fingernails and dirty nails were also mentioned frequently, highlighting the importance of cleanliness.
2. LACK OF ENGAGEMENT
Nothing is more frustrating than dating someone who doesn’t seem interested in you or the conversation. This “ick” covers everything from dry texting to not initiating intimacy or planning dates. A lack of emotional investment is one of the most noticeable red flags, often leading to feelings of disconnection. If you’re texting one-word answers or interrupting your date to scroll through your phone, you’re likely to lose their interest fast.
3. SOCIAL MEDIA OBSESSION
In the age of influencers and constant online presence, being obsessed with social media can be a major turn-off. Spending too much time on platforms like TikTok or Instagram, especially during a date, can be frustrating for your partner. Constantly checking your phone or posting every moment of your life online can give the impression that you’re not truly present in the relationship.
4. DISRESPECT FOR OTHERS
How you treat people – especially those in service jobs – says a lot about your character. Disrespecting waiters, being rude to retail workers, or generally showing poor manners in public is a huge turn-off. A lack of basic decency can be a serious relationship killer, as it reflects how a person might treat their partner in the long term.
5. ENTITLEMENT
Entitlement can manifest in many ways: from expecting your partner to pay for everything on a date to acting as though the world owes you something. This ick often includes a “victim mindset” or dismissing your partner’s feelings and needs. Feeling entitled to someone’s time, affection, or money is a fast track to relationship failure.
6. STINGINESS
When someone is consistently tight-fisted with their money, it can be a major turn-off. Whether it’s splitting the bill on a date or refusing to spend money on anything nice for their partner, stinginess can create resentment and feelings of imbalance in a relationship. Financial generosity, on the other hand, often reflects thoughtfulness and consideration.
7. FINANCIAL DEPENDENCY
While it’s one thing to need a helping hand in tough times, depending on a partner financially can be an unattractive trait. If one person feels like they’re carrying the financial burden in the relationship without reciprocation, it can lead to frustration and a lack of respect. This dynamic often creates an imbalance, which many people find difficult to tolerate.
8. EMOTIONALLY DISTANT FROM FAMILY
Family dynamics can say a lot about a person, and if someone is emotionally distant or dismissive of their own family, it can raise red flags. It’s important to observe how your potential partner interacts with their loved ones. If they refuse to talk about their family or have a negative attitude towards them, this can indicate emotional unavailability or unresolved issues that could affect your relationship.
9. LOUD CHEWING OR CHEWING WITH MOUTH OPEN
While this might seem like a small thing, loud chewing or chewing with your mouth open is a surprisingly common dating “ick.” It can be distracting, annoying, and just plain unpleasant. Eating habits can be a reflection of a person’s manners and level of consideration for others, and when it’s perceived as rude, it can quickly kill the mood.
10. “BECAUSE I’M A BOY AND YOU’RE A GIRL” (HONESTLY ONE OF THE BIGGEST ‘ICKS’)
Gender-based excuses for bad behavior are outdated and unattractive. Phrases like “Because I’m a boy and you’re a girl” can come off as dismissive and patronizing, reflecting a lack of respect for equality in a relationship. In modern dating, such statements indicate a lack of maturity or understanding about mutual respect and shared responsibility.
While these icks may seem trivial, they can have a significant impact on a relationship. Recognizing these behaviors early on can save you from wasting time with someone who isn’t right for you. While everyone has their preferences and pet peeves, it’s essential to engage in open communication about these “icks” with your partner to ensure you’re both on the same page.
If any of these icks hit too close to home in 2025, remember to run! We wanna start clean this year.
