Is new love enthroned? Exploring the viral trend of status-driven dating

Last updated:November 10, 2024, 11:00 IST

Throning can be defined as dating someone for status, fame or power rather than for genuine affection in a relationship.

It's about climbing the social ladder through love. (Representative image)

Gen-Z just introduced a new dating trend that's causing a stir – thrones. After terms like “ghosting,” “breadcrumbing,” and “situations” reached their peak, “throning” has arrived and is taking social media and dating culture by storm. But what exactly does it mean, exactly, and why has it suddenly garnered so much attention?

What is Throne?

Throning can be defined as dating someone for status, fame or power rather than for genuine affection in a relationship. When someone is “enthroned,” it means that their partner is being placed on a pedestal – be it socially or financially. Unlike love or attraction, the motivation here is self-promotion. While some have likened this phenomenon to “power hunting” or even “gold digging,” the modern twist is that the claim is extending to a new generation of interaction, networking and lifestyle that involves social media followers and strategic social connections.

Why is thrones trending?

Social media usage has been steadily increasing, making it easier to judge a person's social status based on their online presence. Whether it's follower count, personal information, lifestyle, or associations, ascendancy often depends on the representation someone provides across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X.

Imagine you're at a social gathering and one of your friends approaches another person – not out of genuine interest, but because that person has influence. This is a perfect example of succession to the throne. On dating apps, swiping right on profiles that convey glamour, dominance and high status rather than compatibility also reflects this trend.

Why are people drawn to the throne?

A study in Science Advances shows that many dating app users seek partners who are 25% more desirable than themselves, subtly suggesting a desire to improve one's status by dating someone viewed as higher up is viewed. Throning takes this concept to the next level.

Although the ascension to the throne may seem exciting because it gives the illusion of love, it rarely goes beyond that. Often there is little real connection and such relationships can become emotionally hollow. People can take advantage of each other without truly appreciating their partner. Relationship expert Stacy Thomson, founder of Reddi, told Indy100 that while the throne can boost self-esteem in the short term and provide access to social media, it doesn't lead to true happiness.

Furthermore, those who are “enthroned” may realize that they are being celebrated not for who they are, but for what they represent. This realization can be frustrating and leave one or both partners feeling unappreciated, explains Thomson.