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57% are alone despite being in a relationship, what does the new relationship survey say on extra-marital affairs? Relationship Survey: 57% Feel Lonely Despite Being in a Relationship

Samira Vishwas | July 17, 2026 2:24 PM CST

On the surface, everything seems normal – the relationship, the partner and even the claim of being happy. But the recent survey brings out a new picture of Indian relationships, in which along with happiness, emotional emptiness is also present. In a survey conducted by IPSOS for Gleeden on 1,510 people in major cities of India, 92% people said that they were happy in their relationship, but in the same survey, 57% respondents admitted that they felt lonely despite being in a relationship. That is, a big difference has emerged between being together and feeling emotionally connected.

Why loneliness?

According to the survey, the biggest challenge in relationships is lack of communication and emotional connection. 84% people expressed satisfaction with their sex life and 25% said that there is nothing lacking in their relationship. Despite this, a large number of people admitted that they do not feel completely emotionally connected to their partner.

extra-marital thoughts

The survey also revealed changing thinking about relationships. 61% men and 62% women believe that humans are not naturally made to live with only one partner for their entire life. At the same time, 69% of the respondents say that mutually consensual non-monogamous relationships are getting more acceptance in the society than before.

Who chooses whom?

The survey also revealed interesting patterns to the use of extra-marital dating platforms. According to the app’s data, men generally prefer women between 25 and 30 years of age. At the same time, women prefer financially stable and established professionals like doctors, chartered accountants or business professionals rather than age.

new truth of relationships

The survey indicates that today mere living together or physical satisfaction is not enough in relationships. Things like trust, open communication, emotional safety and mental connection are becoming more important than ever.

Why expectations beyond reality in romance?

Social media is rapidly changing expectations of relationships. According to the survey, 68% of Indians believe that Instagram, Reels and digital content have presented an unrealistic picture of romance, leading people to compare their real relationships with the “perfect” life seen online. And 64% people admitted that despite being in a serious relationship, they flirt with others on social media.

What is the reason for dissatisfaction?

According to the survey, the biggest reasons for dissatisfaction in relationships are emotional distance, lack of communication and digital interference. 29% of the respondents held social media responsible for the rift in their relationship.