Love or Transaction: The Difference Between Sugar Dating and Conventional Dating

Abstract

Conventional dating is a traditional date between two individuals who have the potential to form a romantic relationship while sugar dating is a relationship where one party provides financial support to the other. The main objective in this study is to explain the factors that cause sugar dating and the differences between conventional dating and sugar dating. This study uses qualitative methods, involving observations and in-depth interviews with 10 informants aged between 19 and 55 years, to explain the phenomenon. The results of the study explain that there are several factors for sugar dating, including financial problems, a luxurious lifestyle, and loneliness. The differences between sugar dating and conventional dating are also seen in the motivation for the relationship, the age of the couple, the time spent together, the duration of the relationship and the views of society. Sugar dating is more focused on financial gain as the main thing, the age difference between couples is often very significant, relationships tend to be temporary and relationships are seen as contraversial by society.