The dating game is far different from how it was decades ago.
By Jules Romero
Nowadays, when a girl says she is seeing someone, it typically means that she’s found someone with whom she can text 24/7. With the internet, teens can date without ever having to meet the person on the other end of the screen.
As with most tools, online dating platforms are neither inherently good nor bad. Positive or negative outcomes from online dating heavily rely on how you use the platform.
Whether you are an online dating veteran or you are new to the online dating scene, there are few things you might want to consider the next time you choose to swipe right on Tinder. Check out our guide below.
The Pros of Online Dating
With online dating, you can connect with people in ways that were not possible just decades ago. There are many benefits to online dating. These benefits include:
● Options. You can connect with over 40 million singles in the United States.
● Various Platforms. You can choose from multiple dating platforms.
● Similar Interests. Most platforms allow you to “filter” your searches according to interests and hobbies that you may share with potential dates.
● Dating Efficiency. You can quickly and efficiently communicate with potential partners.
● An Expanded Toolset. Many sites provide tools that help you match with the exact type of person you are looking for.
The Cons of Online Dating
Although online dating does indeed have its fair share of success stories, you should be wary of the following:
● Crowd. The digital dating marketplace is crowded. Having to swim through all the options can get exhausting.
● Self-imposed Limits. Many singles limit their search criteria to zip code, height, etc. These self-imposed limits prevent them from finding possible matches.
● 24/7. Internet dating can feel like a full-time job. You'll be immediately notified if someone messages you, regardless of time zone differences.
● Catfishing. On the internet, it’s easy to lie about your name, age, appearance, etc. Having to discover that your date isn’t who he or she claims to be can get frustrating.
● Addiction. Online dating can be very addicting. You might find yourself caught up in online conversations all the time, and it may get in the way of other aspects of your life.
Final Thoughts
The internet is a fantastic tool for connecting us with people we would typically never have the chance to meet. Online platforms such as Tinder and Bumble allow us to form and maintain relationships in convenient ways.
However, online dating is not all rainbows and unicorns. You are exposed to real emotional risks each time you engage in online dating.
As mentioned earlier, online dating is neither good nor bad. Regardless of whether you choose to go on online dates, it’s always wise to exercise prudence.
If you’re interested in learning more about how online dating might play out, check out Grace Chen’s upcoming novel, The Beast of Bellevue. It details the story of a budding virtual romance that holds lessons we can all learn from.
References
ABC Life. (2019, October 03). IRL vs online: Is one type of friendship still more meaningful than the other? Retrieved July 30, 2020, from https://www.abc.net.au/life/how-online-friendships-compare-to-real-friends/11456856
Francis, J. (2012, October 15). Virtual vs Real-World Relationships. Retrieved July 30, 2020, from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/in-the-neighborhood/201210/virtual-vs-real-world-relationships
Spira, J. (2013, December 03). Online Dating Vs. Offline Dating: Pros and Cons. Retrieved July 30, 2020, from https://www.huffpost.com/entry/online-dating-vs-offline-_b_4037867