NBC NEWS - Gen Z, defined as those born between 1997 and 2012, faces challenges in flirting and making romantic moves in real life. Many, like Nikki Sanjongco, prefer offline dating but struggle with in-person interactions. Factors such as social anxiety and the pandemic have hindered the development of flirting skills, leading to a reliance on dating apps. Experts like Maxine Williams and Benjamin Camras note that online dating fosters superficial connections and validation-seeking behaviors, making authentic flirting difficult. However, there is a growing trend of young people attending in-person events and practicing "rejection therapy" to overcome these hurdles.