Fresh research from Canadian online dating platform, Ashley Madison has revealed something that might raise eyebrows. A 2026 dating trend report shows that micro romances or tendencies to make multiple connections, are on the rise. In a cited survey that included Indian respondents, 49 per cent of respondents sought relationships apart from their primary one. Two counsellors break down this trend among new-age relationships with a 360-degree discussion.

Main motivations

City-based psychiatrist, Dr Manasi Bhat notes a spike in multiple connections and more openness towards conversations about it. “Often, humans don’t necessarily want multiple partners; they want autonomy, intimacy, freedom, and belonging.” Aditi Vaze, a couples counsellor in Mumbai, echoes this: “The biggest misconception is that it happens for sex. While it can’t be entirely ruled out as an incentive, I see a greater desire in people to find themselves again, especially as they grow older. Often, it begins with a simple connection over helping the other in a crucial way, and eventually becomes a form of escapism from an unfulfilling relationship.” She mentions that nearly 80 per cent of her clients seeking couples’ counselling have experienced some type of underlying infidelity.