Being single in the twenty-first century

Abstract

This chapter outlines how and why more people than ever choose to remain single or select separation and discusses the consequences of these trends. The first part defines the main types of today’s singlehood, emphasizing voluntary and involuntary singlehood. The second part explores how cultural norms and societal expectations play into singles’ well-being and social standing. The third part delves into the reasons and circumstances that lead people to be single. The fourth part discusses the implications of types of singlehood on aspects such as singles’ social connections, sexuality, and stereotypes, considering how the shift towards singlehood is changing the way in which individuals organize their lives socially and sexually. These changes point to a cultural shift that is reconceptualizing the modern meaning of singlehood and, in turn, allowing more people than ever to choose to stay single in the long term.