What is the 6-7 Technique: The Viral Dating Method That Worries Psychologists
By Anastacio Alegría — February 11, 2026
A new dating trend has gone viral on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, known as the 6-7 Technique. It promises to help those looking for a partner simplify their search by lowering expectations about the "ideal partner," but it has raised concerns among psychologists about its potential effects on relationships. (infobae[1])
What does the 6-7 Technique consist of?
The technique suggests that those looking for a partner stop aiming for "the 10"—the person considered ideal or physically perfect—and instead deliberately focus on people perceived as a "6 or 7" in attractiveness. The logic, popularized in viral videos, suggests that this middle ground could offer greater emotional stability and fewer frustrations than pursuing unrealistic ideals. ([infobae][1])
The trend is based on the digital culture of assigning numerical points to the physical attractiveness of potential partners, something already common on social media and dating apps. A "10" represents the ideal and desired, but also unattainable for many, while a "6-7" would be something "realistic and attainable." ([infobae][1])
Expert Criticism: Superficial and Dehumanizing
Although at first glance it may sound like attractive advice for those tired of searching for "the one," psychologists and relationship analysts have harshly criticized it. An article in *GQ* magazine and an analysis by *Psychology Today* point out that this approach:
Reduces people to an arbitrary number based on physical appearance, fostering superficiality and dehumanization. ([Radio Sudamericana][2])
* **It fosters a utilitarian attitude toward relationships**, where someone's value is measured by their score rather than their personality, values, and genuine compatibility. ([Radio Sudamericana][2])
* **It can reinforce biases about who is “valuable” or “worthy” of love**, by suggesting that a person considered average is automatically more stable or reliable than someone perceived as more attractive. ([GQ][3])
According to these analyses, the premise that a less attractive person (a 6 or 7) will automatically be more emotionally available or compatible lacks a solid empirical basis and oversimplifies the complexity of human relationships. (Radio Sudamericana [2])
Risks to Relationships and Self-Esteem
Critics warn that this technique can have negative effects on how people relate to one another:
* **Relationships based on fear of rejection rather than genuine affinity**: Choosing someone to meet a predetermined number can lead to unspoken commitments without true emotional connection. (Radio Sudamericana [2])
* **Erosion of Self-Esteem**: If someone discovers they were chosen because they are perceived as “less attractive,” this could affect their sense of worth and dignity within the relationship. (GQ [3])
* **Promotion of Discriminatory Dynamics**: The approach is criticized for promoting a hierarchy of value based on external and superficial standards, which can end up perpetuating prejudice and social inequalities. (Radio Sudamericana [2])
What do experts say instead of following formulas?
Both *GQ* and *Psychology Today* agree that the key to establishing healthy relationships lies not in following a numerical formula, but in working on fundamental aspects such as:
* **Getting to know the other person with honesty and patience**. ([Radio Sudamericana][2])
* **Valuing emotional compatibility and shared values** beyond physical appearance. ([Radio Sudamericana][2])
* **Breaking with stereotypes and expectations imposed by social media** about what an ideal relationship or partner “should be” like. ([Radio Sudamericana][2])
In an increasingly digital world where dating takes place through screens, these reflections underscore that **authenticity, communication, and mutual respect remain the pillars of any lasting bond**. ([Radio Sudamericana][2])
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