Imagine being on a first date with someone, and things seem to be going really well. You have lots to talk about, and they’re attractive, funny, and kind. At some point, they show you a picture of them kissing their dog on the mouth. Suddenly, the person who seemed so promising becomes so repulsive that you cannot wait for the date to be over.

This confusing sensation is colloquially called “the ick.” It refers to an instantaneous aversion to a potential partner, often triggered by a specific behavior or personality trait. This sense of disgust can be so strong that it abruptly extinguishes any romantic interest.

Interestingly, an abrupt feeling of disgust can be beneficial in everyday social interactions. A 2012 study published in The Year in Cognitive Neuroscience found that a sense of disgust can help us avoid diseases or choose suitable partners by rejecting individuals who violate social norms. However, “the ick” has skewed this natural defense mechanism.

Simply typing the phrase into your search engine makes it clear how much Gen Z has adopted it into their dating culture. Social media, particularly........

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