Swinging to the Next: Why Gen Z Is Embracing “Monkey Barring”

A new dating trend called “monkey barring” is making waves among Gen Z — but it’s not quite cheating. The term refers to moving from one relationship to the next without fully letting go of the old one, much like swinging across monkey bars. Experts say the behavior is fueled by dating apps that create a “shopping cart mentality” and a fear of rejection, leading young daters to keep someone waiting in the wings before ending a relationship. While it may offer a sense of security, critics warn it can backfire and blur the lines between commitment and infidelity.