The transformation of romantic relationships in college youth

This study is designed to investigate the ways in which university youth form and sustain romantic relationships. The experience of modernization, originating from Western Europe since the 19th century, has profoundly influenced and continues to impact the social structures of global societies that have become integrated into this process. Concurrent with dynamics of modernization such as scientific and technological advancements, urbanization, secularization, and individualization, we observe the exaltation of a romantic love phenomenon at the socio-cultural level, which has gained significant prominence in modern societies. Within this context, significant variations are observed in the attitudes and behavioral roles adopted by youth in premarital romantic relationships concerning phenomena such as mate selection, dating, and sexuality. This research examines not only the future projections of youth regarding marriage and family institution but also their current (premarital) romantic relationship statuses. A comprehensive approach is adopted, examining the effects of major independent variables such as relationships with parents, peer groups, consumption habits, value perceptions, religious and ideological inclinations on romantic relationships. The population of the study consists of undergraduate students enrolled at Sakarya University. With a descriptive methodology adhering to a 90% confidence interval and a 0.3 margin of error, our stratified sampling technique involved a student sample of 820 individuals selected from 7 faculties, conducted in classroom settings anonymously. Both married students and foreign nationals were excluded from the scope of the research. Findings suggest that while the importance of marriage is upheld, the responsibilities it entails may be daunting for young individuals. Furthermore, it is found that love is considered a prerequisite for marriage, the value attributed to virginity is diminishing, material comfort expectations are prominent in mate selection, and urbanization, social media, and secularization significantly influence the increase in premarital sexuality. Additionally, it is concluded that the rising number and frequency of relationships among youth contribute to the increase in fluid and fragile relationships.