Even if you're not supposed to say it, you're spot on! I do think some single women react to societal disapproval and condescension by latching on to a "I don't need anyone" mentality. In truth, we all need people. In absence of a community that perceives your value, being single can be incredibly isolating. (From my experience, even being a married mom in a family/society that doesn't perceive your value can be incredibly isolating.) That doesn't mean romantic relationships are a panacea for all our ills or essential to our sense of self-worth, but it's one way to help us feel tethered, to feel that someone else is bearing witness to our lives.