Amy Chan

Dating Dealbreakers Can Screen Out Partners Who Build Lasting Relationships

Dating columnist and breakup coach Amy Chan argues that modern daters’ habit of scanning for flaws can turn preferences into dealbreakers—and screen out partners capable of building lasting relationships. In her TEDxVancouver talk, she says dating apps and social media reinforce that impulse by encouraging people to treat partners as customizable options and prioritize visible traits over commitment, appreciation and conflict skills. Chan urges daters to distinguish genuine incompatibilities from preferences and give people outside their usual type a chance.