Cold Weather Romance: Romance reaches its peak during the winter season. Let us explain why this happens and what factors are responsible for it.

Dating in the winter

Why Romance Increases During Winter Months: With the arrival of winter weather, a new wave of romance surges among people. Known as "cuffing season," it means that singles seek a relationship to enjoy during the long, cold winter nights. The question is: Does this really happen? And if so, is there a scientific reason behind it? If you have similar questions, let us tell you whether this really happens or if it's normal.

Looking for a partner in winter

Winter is also known as the season of romance, as people tend to spend more time together during the cold. Christine Ma-Kellams, a psychology professor at San Jose State University, says, "The term 'cuffing season' suggests that the weather influences human mating behavior." While there's no consensus on this, internet data suggests a different story. According to media reports, searches for certain things increase significantly during this time, including:

• Porn searches
• Activity on dating sites
• Even searches related to sex work

Such searches peak twice a year, in winter and summer. A 2012 study also showed a similar pattern, with searches increasing in winter and summer, with a six-month cycle. Another study from the 1990s examined whether physical activity increases at certain times of the year. Based on birth rates, abortions, sexually transmitted diseases, and condom sales, it was concluded that sex increases around Christmas, and sometimes it is quite unsafe.

What's the story of dating apps?

While there's little direct evidence of this today, data from dating apps suggests otherwise. Bumble data shows that the most swiping happens between the last weeks of November and February, meaning relationships are formed and broken around Valentine's Day. Justin Garcia, executive director of the Kinsey Institute, says, "People think more about relationships during holidays and festivals." He says that while dating apps are available year-round, winter clearly sees a spike in swiping, perhaps because people are less likely to go out and meet new people.

Do humans also form relationships based on the weather?

Now the question arises: do humans form relationships based on the seasons? The answer is that there are significant biological differences between humans and animals. Sue Carter, a professor at Indiana University, explains that animals like cows follow a strictly seasonal reproductive cycle because they need green grass when they give birth. Many birds also follow a similar pattern. However, this pattern is quite different in humans. Humans are not seasonal. Given the opportunity, they form relationships in any season.