Many online dating sites claim to offer a better shot at finding love than other forms of traditional dating, but one study is challenging these claims.
The study ultimately questions whether the particular structures offered by online dating sites create more opportunities or more problems for potential daters.
Researchers note several online dating sites offer matching algorithms to help pair compatible individuals, but researchers found little evidence to suggest matching algorithms actually predict compatibility.
“Researchers found little evidence to suggest
matching algorithms predict compatibility.”
Researchers said online dating places an emphasis on browsing matches, which puts superficial traits front and center and reduces a user’s desire to commit to one person.
While online communication can create an intimate connection between two strangers, the study argues online communication can cause unrealistic expectations real-life encounters cannot compete with.
The study’s authors note all of the above factors will likely improve as online dating develops further.
However, they ultimately conclude while online dating offers a unique matchmaking opportunity, it may not offer a superior opportunity compared with traditional real-world situations.
Source: SagePub.com.
