Online Dating and Dating Apps

Introduction

Finding the perfect partner with whom one can develop a nurturing relationship is no easy task, especially in today's frenetic and scheduled way of life. The limited opportunities for dating often lead to misinterpretations and unsuccessful relationships, resulting in a rise in divorce rates and unhappy individuals. However, the advent of new technologies and the widespread use of the Internet have presented new possibilities for meeting compatible partners. Dating websites, which have been growing in popularity since the mid-1990s, and the recent rise of dating apps on smartphones have significantly changed the landscape of romantic meetings. Nevertheless, the use of algorithms in such a personal and crucial aspect of life raises questions.

Main Body

Online dating websites operate on a similar premise, where singles complete a questionnaire that shares information about their preferences, hobbies, work, and income, among other things. Through an algorithm, the system presents a broad pool of potential partners. This approach offers the advantage of allowing singles to explore different matches and get an initial sense of compatibility before deciding whether to meet in person. There are two other noteworthy differences brought about by online dating. Firstly, the process of getting to know someone has changed significantly, as the availability of comprehensive information about a potential partner has replaced the traditional slow learning process. Secondly, communicating through a screen via typing lacks the emotional aspects of a face-to-face interaction, even though it may appear more comfortable.

Dating apps take things a step further by eliminating the sluggishness of traditional dating and the need for a detailed profile page. Most dating apps introduce potential partners based on a few parameters, such as purpose and age range, accompanied by a picture. Interaction is reduced to the simple actions of "reject" or "like," which can be performed by a swipe left or right with a finger. If two people mutually like each other, they can proceed to chat. Dating apps are generally associated with casual dating and short-term relationships. Compared to traditional dating, both online dating websites and dating apps amplify the ability to connect with potential partners.

From a psychological perspective, online and traditional dating address different needs and desires within a relationship. Online dating satisfies the need for long and sincere communication, which is often lacking in many modern relationships. However, if online communication becomes excessively prolonged without resulting in a real-life meeting, it can turn into a pen-pal relationship. This highlights a significant drawback of online dating, namely the lack of intimacy. A physical connection, including eye contact, body language, gestures, and touches, is essential for a truly multidimensional and intimate relationship. While virtual communication occurs between two-dimensional individuals, physical communication fulfills the need for protection, acceptance, and understanding.

Traditional dating involves a more profound emotional impact, as compatibility and information about a potential partner are discovered gradually. However, excessive shyness or social discomfort can hinder effective communication and prevent the fulfillment of the need for protection and stability.

Conclusion

The advantages of online dating and dating apps include a wide availability of potential matches, the opportunity for an initial assessment of compatibility, and extended online communication to deepen the acquaintance. Dating apps, in particular, do not provide extensive information about potential matches, relying on a limited set of data to develop their algorithms. On the other hand, traditional dating has a more emotional impact, allowing compatibility and information about a potential partner to be discovered gradually. Ultimately, it is important to recognize that online dating needs to transition into real-life interactions in order to establish a meaningful relationship.