What Do Turkish Guys Like in a Girlfriend?

When it comes to relationships and romance, Turkish men express a range of preferences, shaped by cultural traditions but changing along with modern values. As in any culture, diversity exists – some prize personality, others prioritize domestic skills or demure femininity. However, a few interesting insights emerge:

An Orientation Toward Family

Family remains extremely important in mainstream Turkish culture. A 2014 Pew research survey found that 9 in 10 Turkish adults felt family is very important in their lives – the highest among 34 countries surveyed. With strong family ties, many Turkish men seek women who they perceive will be good mothers and run warm, welcoming households.

Data indicates getting married and having kids is seen as an important life goal by the majority in Turkey. One OECD study of 35 countries found Turkey ranked 2nd (behind Mexico) in percentage who view marriage and children as "necessary" parts of life.

So qualities like nurturing ability, domestically skilled, family-focused and eager to have kids are commonly valued by Turkish men – especially those following more traditional norms.

Traits of a "Good Woman"

Historically in Turkey, a "good woman" was defined by patience, obedience, morality and chastity – supporting her family within a patriarchal structure. And many still prize those traditional feminine virtues today:

• Loyal and nurturing – taking care of her man emotionally and domestically
• Virtuous and modest – embodying morality and chastity
• Respectful and deferential – to her husband and his family

However, these gender norms are gradually shifting, especially among younger generations, as Turkey becomes more modern and egalitarian in relationships.

The Importance of Personality

Despite cultural emphasis on family duties, Turkish men greatly value personality, compatibility and emotional intimacy in a long-term partner.

According to the previously mentioned Pew study, about 50% of Turkish adults ranked "mutual attraction/love" as crucial in choosing a spouse – less than Western nations but still substantial. And traits like humor, confidence, intelligence and adventurousness are prized.

Key areas of compatibility like shared values and life goals, spiritual beliefs, educational backgrounds and family status are also strong considerations. These factors support building a meaningful companionship.

Changing Attitudes

Turkey exists between traditionalism and modernity, so relationship attitudes span the spectrum.

Urbanization and global connectivity is transforming culture among younger generations. For example, support for traditional gender roles has decreased over time:

So modern Turkish men increasingly want partners who are educated, career-oriented and more equitable in relationships.

At the same time, traditional values persist – especially regarding family and gender norms for women. Navigating between old and new cultural tensions is complex – for both Turkish society and romantic partnerships.

The Priority of Personhood

While influenced by cultural backgrounds, we each seek partners aligning with our individual values, personalities and life visions. Reducing others to demographic categories often overlooks complexity and humanity in relationships.

So whether Turkish or anywhere else, the most important factor in romance is mutual understanding, respect and support between two whole people.