The 'I Can Fix Them' Dating Trend: Why Are Young People Drawn to Broken Relationships?

[Urvashi]

Many Gen Zers report being attracted to partners who need "fixing." Is this compassion or a recipe for emotional disaster?

Have you ever stayed in a relationship hoping to "help" someone?

 

[Lolita]

I think the “I Can Fix Them” dating trend reflects young people’s desire to feel needed and hopeful. Sometimes, they’re drawn to broken relationships seeking purpose or validation, but this can lead to emotional exhaustion if boundaries and self-care aren’t prioritized.

 

[Nomad]

The young generation is more sensitive that the old generation, therefore, they are under impression that they are not just sympathetic but also empathetic. Therefore, they easily identify with someone's problem.

 

[Urvashi]

I agree, the younger generation’s heightened sensitivity often makes them feel deeply connected to others’ struggles. This empathy helps them understand emotions beyond sympathy, fostering stronger support and solidarity, though it can also make them more vulnerable to emotional overwhelm.

 

[King Belieal]

I don't understand why most of us ( the Gen Zers) enter into a relationship to fix people. We fail to understand that most times we damage ourselves trying to fix or help others.

 

[cherry123]

This attraction stems from a lack of self-worth or a subconscious search for validation through another person's struggles.

 

[Niyi Briggs]

I am a Gen Z and I don't enter relationships to fix anyone. I am very logical in my doings, including my approach to relationships. Anyone that needs fixing should go fix themselves. themselves. It is mentally and emotionally draining to be fixing a partner. I think most Gen Z do this because they were not built with mental strength to turn their backs at people.