As the South China Morning Post notes, this does not mean they “see their dates as prey,” but rather show affection by bringing their lovers “prey” in the form of small gifts or discoveries. As reported by the South China Morning Post, the country had around 240 million single people in 2024, and marriage registrations have dropped significantly compared with a decade ago. But what psychological needs or relationship expectations might be driving the popularity of ‘hunter-style lovers’? Story continues below this adTrust, attachment, and emotional security between partnersRepeated practical gestures create what psychologists call secure attachment conditioning. “Small acts also function as non-verbal validation, which enhances perceived partner responsiveness a key predictor of long-term relationship satisfaction,” states Gurnani.

Source: Indian Express February 26, 2026 18:11 UTC