Satisfying Singlehood as a Function of Age and Cohort: Satisfaction With Being Single Increases With Age After Midlife

A growing body of research suggests that despite the stereotype of being dissatisfied with their relationship status, there is variability in how single (unpartnered) individuals feel about singlehood. The current research examined how satisfaction with singlehood varies (linearly or nonlinearly) with age. In Study 1, we analyzed five cross-sectional samples of single individuals (N = 3,304; collected in 2020-2021) using an integrative data analysis (IDA) approach. In Study 2, we used Dutch longitudinal data (N = 3,193; collected in 2008-2019) to more precisely separate the effect of age from that of birth cohort. Study 1 demonstrated that satisfaction with singlehood was positively associated with age after midlife whereas desire for a partner was negatively associated with age. Study 2 provided conceptually consistent evidence for age-related increases in satisfaction with singlehood during mid to late adulthood (around 40s-80s). Some evidence was found in Study 2 that more recent cohorts were higher in satisfaction with singlehood, but this effect did not hold when accounting for differences in marital status. These results provide evidence for potential age effects in well-being related outcomes for singles and suggest that midlife may be an important turning point. Understanding what makes singles satisfied with singlehood at older age may be a promising approach to gain insights into how to promote well-being of the rising single population. Public Significance Statement We found that midlife may be an important turning point for the well-being of single individuals as satisfaction with singlehood appeared to begin an upward trajectory around age 40. Our data add to the growing evidence that despite negative societal stereotypes about singles, there are a number of singles (such as those past midlife) who report being relatively satisfied about being single.