Laura De Rosa The “cuffing season,” which includes winter but also fall, is when we are most likely to seek and desire long-term relationships. Here's why...
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When temperatures drop, the urge for intimacy seems to rise—a phenomenon linked to “cuffing season“, a term referring to the “season of being handcuffed” to a romantic partner. Why does this happen? While there isn’t one definitive answer, several factors appear to play a role, starting with the emotional comfort we crave as the weather turns cold.
The seasonal shift: from flirting to nesting
Winter is not conducive to outdoor sociability compared to the rather bohemian, flippant mood of summer, appropriately referred to as the “flirting season“. Longer nights and cold weather are definitely contributors to this change, pushing us back toward home and away from casual socializing.
This behavioral pattern may even have its roots in human evolution. In harsher climates, our ancestors, unable to rely on warm blankets or insulated shelters, likely sought companionship as a survival strategy, making them less vulnerable to predators and other threats.
Winter feels like a natural time for introspection and connection with those we hold dear. It’s a season to step back from life’s hustle and spend meaningful time with loved ones. Whether it’s a psychological need or an evolutionary remnant, the result is the same: even the most independent souls often find themselves longing for a steady partner during the colder months.
A temporary change in romantic preferences
Interestingly, even those committed to a single lifestyle may find themselves suddenly overcome with a seasonal urge for companionship. The appeal of fleeting flings diminishes in the face of winter’s cozy and contemplative mood—especially during the festive holiday period.
Data supports this trend through popular dating apps such as Bumble and Hinge. According to Bumble, their users are most busy from late November into mid-February. The bottom line suggests that winter is, in fact, a peak time of year for those seeking something serious online.
